Difference between revisions of "Scorpion (BattleMech)"

 
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{{otheruses|the 55-ton BattleMech|other uses|Scorpion}}
 
{{InfoBoxBattleMech
 
{{InfoBoxBattleMech
|image=3025scorpion.jpg
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|image = Scorpion RGilClan v19.png
|name=Scorpion
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|name = ''Scorpion''
|manufacturer=
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|manufacturer =  
[[Brigadier Corporation]] <br />
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[[Brigadier Corporation]]<ref name=TRJp120f>''Technical Readout: Jihad'', pp. 120–121: "SCP-12S Scorpion"</ref> <!-- reprinted from TRO:PP -->
[[Defiance Industries]] <ref>''Objectives: Lyran Alliance'', p.12</ref>
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----
|production year=2570
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[[Defiance Industries]]<ref name=TRJp120f /><ref>''Objectives: Lyran Alliance'', p. 12</ref>
|year reference=<ref>''[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/2837/ MUL online date for the ''{{PAGENAME}}'']''</ref>
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|production year = 2570
|model=SCP-1N
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|year reference = <ref>[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/2837/ ''MUL online date for the ''{{PAGENAME}}]</ref>
|Tech Base=inner sphere
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|model = SCP-1N
|mech type=battlemech
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|Tech Base = inner sphere
|feet=quad
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|mech type = battlemech
|cost= 5,201,800 C-bills
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|feet = quad
|mass=55
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|cost = 5,201,800 [[C-bill]]s
|chassis=Brigadier 800F
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|mass = 55
|armor=4/Star Slab
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|chassis = [[Brigadier 800F]]
|engine=[[VOX 330]]
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|armor = [[4/Star Slab]]
|comsys=[[Garret 500A]]
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|engine = [[VOX 330]]
|T&T=[[Garret GRNDTRK 9]]
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|comsys = [[Garret 500A]]
|heat sinks=10
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|T&T = [[Garret GRNDTRK 9]]
|speed=97.2
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|heat sinks = 10 [[Heat Sink|single]]
|armament=  
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|speed = 97.2
*1x [[PPC]]
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|armament =
*1x [[SRM-6]]
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* 1x [[PPC]]
|BV (1.0)= 786
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* 1x [[SRM-6]]
|BV (2.0)= 1,019<ref name=TRO3039-288>''Technical Readout: 3039'', p. 288</ref><ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 458</ref>
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|BV (1.0) = 786
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|BV (2.0) = 1,019<ref name=TRO3039-288>''Technical Readout: 3039'', p. 288</ref><ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 458</ref>
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
==Description==
 
==Description==
Built before the technological renaissance that saw a more open view of quadruped [['Mech]]s, and introduced by the [[Terran Hegemony]] in [[Introduction Year::2570]]<ref>''Era Digest: Age of War'', p. 11, "BattleMech Tech Timeline"</ref>, the '''''Scorpion''''' is an example of an idea that was ahead of its time. The 'Mech was originally intended as a stable weapons platform but as the model came into service it was relegated to an [[infantry]] support role. The design itself was also shunned by most [[MechWarrior (pilot)|MechWarriors]] due to the rough ride of the four-legged gait. If the design is looked at through an objective standpoint, the ''Scorpion'' is a very capable 'Mech at its intended role. With the PPC mounted in the body and with the inherent stability of the design, the 'Mech is a very stable platform for long-range fire. One quirk in the design, though, that does put it at something of a disadvantage is the lack of [[jump jet]]s used on most medium 'Mechs. The top speed of 97.2 kph, however, does help to alleviate any maneuverability concerns a pilot may have.<ref name=TRO3039-288/>
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Introduced and built by the [[Terran Hegemony]] in [[Introduction Year::2570]] before the technological renaissance that saw a more open view of quadruped [['Mech]]s,<ref>''Era Digest: Age of War'', p. 11: "BattleMech Tech Timeline"</ref> the '''''Scorpion''''' is an example of an idea that was ahead of its time. The 'Mech was originally intended as a stable weapons platform, but as the model came into service it was relegated to an [[infantry]] support role. The design itself was shunned by most [[MechWarrior (pilot)|MechWarriors]] due to the rough ride of the four-legged gait, but if the design is looked at through an objective standpoint the ''Scorpion'' is a very capable 'Mech for its intended role.<ref name=TRO3039-288/>
  
At some point there had been an attempt to create a [[LAM]] version of the ''Scorpion'', an unworkable project that was abandoned and literally buried in a bunker on [[Hesperus II]]. The long-forgotten blueprints and prototype remains were found by chance in [[3065]]. Although the ''Scorpion'' LAM project as such had been unsuccessful, it had succeeded in streamlining components and redesigning the leg suspension, and applying these modifications alleviated the famously bumpy ride on the -12S and all subsequent variants.<ref>Technical Readout: Project Phoenix, p. 28</ref>
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At some point there had been an attempt to create a [[LAM]] version of the ''Scorpion'', an unworkable project that was abandoned and quite literally buried in a bunker on [[Hesperus II]]. The long-forgotten blueprints and prototype remains were found by chance in [[3065]]. Although the ''Scorpion LAM'' project as such had been unsuccessful, it had succeeded in streamlining components and redesigning the leg suspension, and applying these modifications alleviated the famously bumpy ride on the -12S and all subsequent variants.<ref>Technical Readout: Project Phoenix, p. 28</ref>
  
 
==Weapons and Equipment==
 
==Weapons and Equipment==
The ''Scorpion'' carries a very basic weapons payload. Its primary weapon is an Anderson Armaments [[PPC]] which, when combined with the ''Scorpion''s highly stable chassis, makes the 'Mech an ideal close support 'Mech. For close range combat, the ''Scorpion'' carries a Marvel Six-Load [[SRM-6]]. This weapon allows the ''Scorpion'' to capitalize on any breaches in the enemy's armor.<ref name=TRO3039-288/> The scorpion has another, smaller swivel-mount looking tube beneath the cockpit, perhaps intended for a flamer, machine gun, or small laser, but this mount does not actually work and is purely cosmetic; speculation is that it was dropped after the frame was completed and removing it would have slowed down production.
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The quadruped ''Scorpion'' is built on a [[Brigadier 800F]] chassis and powered by a [[VOX 330]] [[fusion engine]], allowing it to move at a top speed of 97.2 km/h, which lets the 'Mech reach good firing positions quickly if pilots can endure the bumpy ride. Protection is provided by seven tons of [[4/Star Slab]] [[standard armor]], and heat is managed by 10 [[single heat sink]]s.
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 +
The ''Scorpion'' carries a very basic, though dangerous, weapons payload. Its primary weapon is an [[Anderson Armaments Particle Cannon PPC 12|Anderson Armaments]] [[PPC]] which, when combined with the ''Scorpion''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s highly stable chassis, makes the 'Mech ideal for close support. For close range combat, the ''Scorpion'' carries a [[Marvel Six-Load]] [[SRM-6]] which allows the ''Scorpion'' to capitalize on any breaches in the enemy's armor.<ref name=TRO3039-288/> The ''Scorpion'' has another, smaller swivel-mount looking tube beneath the cockpit, perhaps intended for a flamer, machine gun, or small laser, but this mount does not actually work and is purely cosmetic; speculation is that it was dropped after the frame was completed and removing it would have slowed down production.
  
 
==Variants==
 
==Variants==
*;SCP-1O : The SCP-1O ''Scorpion'' introduced in [[3049]] is a very basic upgrade of the design. The PPC is removed and replaced with an [[ER PPC]]. While this gives the ''Scorpion'' greater range, it also increases the heat from the ER PPC by fifty percent, which greatly overtaxes the ''Scorpion''s ten [[heat sink]]s. [[Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix]] shows the SCP-1O with [[Double Heat Sinks]]. BV (1.0) = 785, BV (2.0) = 1,054<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 69</ref>
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*; SCP-1O : The SCP-1O, introduced in [[3049]], is a very basic upgrade of the design which replaces the [[PPC]] with an [[ER PPC]]. While this gives the ''Scorpion'' greater range, it also increases the heat from the ER PPC by 50%, which necessitated the use of [[double heat sink]]s. BV (1.0) = 785, BV (2.0) = 1098<ref>[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/2839/scorpion-scp-1o ''MUL Entry for the SCP-1O'' Scorpion]</ref>
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*;SCP-1BR : This variant uses a light 330 fusion engine to maintain the 97.2 kph standard top speed, but incorporates [[MASC]] for short bursts of 129kph. 8 tons of [[Heavy Ferro-fibrous]] armor provides adequate, but substandard protection. An [[ER PPC]] is mounted in the right torso, alongside a [[Streak SRM-6]]. Its one ton of ammunition is carried in the [[CASE]] protected left torso. Ten double heatsinks keep the mech cool in most circumstances. BV (2.0) =1,473<ref name=RGv19p7>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 19'', p. 7</ref>
 +
 
 +
*; SCP-1TB : This ''Scorpion'' uses a pair of [[light PPC]]s as its main armament, backed up by an [[MML-9]]. A [[light fusion engine]] provides power and a [[MASC]] system allows it to put on bursts of speed of up to 120 km/h. BV (2.0) = 1,185<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 70</ref>
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 +
*;SCP-2N : The 2N utilizes [[Endo Steel]] and a Light 330 engine to save weight. A [[Supercharger]] is mounted in the left torso and provides quick stints of 129kph. While familiar in layout, the weapons array is all new. A [[Plasma Rifle]] and its two tons of ammo are mounted in the right torso underneath a double mounting of [[MML-3]]s. Their two tons of ammo is carried in the [[CASE II]] magazine in the left torso alongside a [[TAG]] designator. 11.5 tons of standard armor provides strong protection. BV (2.0) =1,562<ref name=RGv19p7/>
  
*;SCP-1TB : This ''Scorpion'' uses a pair of [[Light PPC]]s as its main armament, backed up by a [[MML-9]]. A [[Light Fusion Engine]] provides power and a [[MASC]] system allows it to put on bursts of speed of up to 120km/h. BV (2.0) = 1,185<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 70</ref>
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*; SCP-10M : This post-[[Jihad]] version introduced in [[3080]] uses an [[endo steel]] chassis and [[XL engine]] to propel the 'Mech at a top speed of 119 km/h. The use of these lighter components, as well as an [[XL gyro]], allows the ''Scorpion'' to carry a [[heavy PPC]], [[LRM-10]], and nine tons of armor. 10 [[double heat sink]]s keep the 'Mech's weapons in constant use. BV (2.0) = 1,458<ref>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 241</ref>
  
*;SCP-10M : This post-[[Jihad]] version introduced in [[3080]] uses an [[Endo Steel]] chassis and [[XL Engine]] to propel the 'Mech at a top speed of 119 km/h. The use of these lighter components, as well as an [[XL Gyro]], allows the ''Scorpion'' to carry a [[Heavy PPC]], [[LRM-10]], and nine tons of armor. Ten double heat sinks keep the 'Mech's weapons in constant use. BV (2.0) = 1,458<ref>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 241</ref>
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*; SCP-12C : Inspired by Defiance Industries producing the new 12S variant, this [[3067]] Blakist version produced by Brigadier is similar to the original design. The engine has been upgraded to an [[extralight engine]] and the armor to [[ferro-fibrous]]. The primary weapon has been upgraded to a [[Magna Firestar]] [[ER PPC]] and the missile rack dropped in favor of [[ER small laser]], an [[improved Narc missile beacon]], and a [[C3i computer]]; the heat sinks have been upgraded to double-strength models.<ref name=TRJp120f /> This is the first model to include the improvements to the suspension and leg mechanisms derived from the recovered LAM prototype designs. BV (1.0) = 1,058, BV (2.0) = 1,259<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 72</ref>
  
*;SCP-12C : This [[3067]] version of the ''Scorpion'' is similar to the original design. The engine has been upgraded to an Extralight engine and it now uses [[Ferro-Fibrous]] armor for protection. The primary weapon is an ER PPC and the 12C has [[double heat sink]]s to handle the large heat load from the weapon. The SRM-6 was replaced with an [[Improved Narc Missile Beacon]], which allows friendly units to fire missiles at enemies that have been tagged with an iNarc pod with more accuracy. Additionally, a [[Improved C3 Computer|C3i computer]] has been added to allow other C3 equipped units to share targeting telemetry. BV (1.0) = 1,058, BV (2.0) = 1,259<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 72</ref>
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*; SCP-12K : This ''Scorpion'' variant uses an [[XL engine]] and 10 tons of [[ferro-fibrous]] armor. This design is armed with a [[snub-nose PPC]], an [[MML-9]] with two tons of ammunition, and an [[ER medium laser]]. Additionally, a [[C3 master computer]] is included to control a C3 network. BV (2.0) = 1,260<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 73</ref>
  
*;SCP-12K : This ''Scorpion'' variant uses an XL Engine and ten tons of Ferro-Fibrous armor. A [[C3 Computer]] is included to control a C3 network. This design is armed with a [[Snub-Nose PPC]], an [[MML-9]] and two tons of ammunition, as well an an [[ER Medium Laser]]. BV (2.0) = 1,260<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 73</ref>
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*; SCP-12S : The 12S variant of the ''Scorpion'' is produced by [[Defiance Industries]] and is a complete redesign of the 'Mech. The use of a [[Defiance SLAM Endo-Steel|Defiance SLAM]] [[endo steel]] chassis and an [[Edasich 330 Light]] [[light fusion engine|fusion engine]] saves enough weight to upgrade the primary weapon to a [[Defiance Shredder]] [[LB 10-X Autocannon]], supported by a [[Harvester 20K SRM-6 Launcher|Harvester 20K]] [[SRM-6]]. [[Maximillian 100]] armor with CASE replaces the original StarSlab. The heat sinks are upgraded to much needed doubles, the electronics updated to [[Neil 6000-g]] comms and an [[RCA Instatrac Mark XXII]] T&T system.<ref name=TRJp120f /> BV (1.0) = 969, BV (2.0) = 1,109<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 74</ref>  
  
*;SCP-12S : The 12S variant of the ''Scorpion'' is produced by Defiance Industries and is a complete redesign of the ''Scorpion''. The [['Mech]] is constructed using an Endo Steel chassis and is powered by a [[Light Fusion Engine]]. The saved weight is used to upgrade the primary weapon to an [[LB-X Autocannon/10]] and for close range combat the ''Scorpion'' retains its SRM-6 launcher. BV (1.0) = 969, BV (2.0) = 1,109<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 74</ref>
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*;Scorpion C : A Clan wolf variant, the Scorpion C is a fierce combatant at any range. Enhanced with Clan weaponry, this Scorpion hits like no other. A Clan [[ER PPC]] enhanced by a [[PPC Capacitor]] provides devastating fire from the right torso. The familiar missile mount carries an [[ATM-6]] launcher. Three tons of ammo provide a full range of munitions for the launcher and are protected by [[CASE II]] in the left torso. A [[Micro Pulse Laser]] is mounted in the left torso as an infantry deterrent. Also carried in the left torso is a [[Supercharger]] that provides a 129 kph top speed. Only ten double heatsinks are mounted and they can quickly be overwhelmed. BV (2.0) =2.331<ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 19'', p. 31</ref>
  
 
===Custom Variants===
 
===Custom Variants===
*;SCP-1N Wednall : Wendall Puritan's customized standard SCP-1N ''Scorpion'' exchanges the PPC for a [[Large Laser]]. The extra tonnage goes toward additional armor.<ref name=TRO3039-288/> BV (2.0) = 1043 <ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 463</ref>
+
*; SCP-1N Wendall : [[Wendall Puritan]]'s customized standard SCP-1N exchanges the [[PPC]] for a [[large laser]]. The extra tonnage goes toward additional armor.<ref name=TRO3039-288/> BV (2.0) = 1043<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 463</ref>
  
== Design Quirks ==
+
==Design Quirks==
The ''Scorpion'' has the following [[Design Quirks]]:<ref>[[BattleMech Manual]], p. 94 Design Quirk Table - Scorpion Entry.</ref>
+
The ''Scorpion'' is subject to the following [[Design Quirks]]:<ref>[[BattleMech Manual]], p. 94: Design Quirk Table - Scorpion Entry</ref>
 
* [[Bad Reputation]]
 
* [[Bad Reputation]]
 
* [[Hard to Pilot]]
 
* [[Hard to Pilot]]
  
 
==Related BattleMechs==
 
==Related BattleMechs==
* '''''[[Scorpion LAM]]''''' - A failed attempt to develop a Land Air Mech version of the ''Scorpion'', this prototype nevertheless led to marked improvements to ride smoothness in later variants of the original.
+
* '''''[[Scorpion LAM]]''''' - A failed attempt to develop a Land-Air 'Mech version of the ''Scorpion'', this prototype nevertheless led to marked improvements to ride smoothness in later variants of the original.
  
 
==Notable Pilots==
 
==Notable Pilots==
 
* [[Wendall Puritan]] - Noted ''Scorpion'' pilot, Puritan left the [[Lyran Guards]] after [[House Steiner]] announced they were phasing the design out of the [[Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces]], opting to join the [[Smithson's Chinese Bandits]] [[mercenary unit]] rather than see his family 'Mech scrapped or pilot another design.<ref name=TRO3039-288/>
 
* [[Wendall Puritan]] - Noted ''Scorpion'' pilot, Puritan left the [[Lyran Guards]] after [[House Steiner]] announced they were phasing the design out of the [[Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces]], opting to join the [[Smithson's Chinese Bandits]] [[mercenary unit]] rather than see his family 'Mech scrapped or pilot another design.<ref name=TRO3039-288/>
 +
* Ju-Lei Marshigama - Commanding officer of [[Marshigama's Legionnaires]].<ref name="CMMp57">''Combat Manual: Mercenaries'', p. 57</ref>
  
 
==Notes==
 
==Notes==
* The (original) ''Scorpion'' variants and artwork from 3025 were part of the [[Unseen]] 'Mech designs. The ''Scorpion'' was [[Reseen]] in 3067 with new variants using revised artwork.<ref name=TROPP>''Technical Readout: Project Phoenix''</ref>
+
* The record sheets for the SCP-1O upgrade were originally published single heat sinks (''[[Record Sheets: 3050]]'' and ''[[Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged]]''). This was errata'd to double heat sinks, with the updated record sheet found in ''[[Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix]]'' and subsequent publications.
* In German products the unit's proper name was perfectly translated to '''Skorpion'''. The model code was accordingly changed to '''SKP-1N'''.
+
 
 +
* 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 ''Scorpion'' 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.
 +
 
 +
* The original ''Scorpion'' variants and artwork from 3025 were part of the [[Unseen]] 'Mech designs. The ''Scorpion'' was [[Reseen]] in 3067 with new variants using revised artwork.<ref name=TROPP>''Technical Readout: Project Phoenix''</ref>
 +
 
 +
* In German products, the unit's proper name was translated to '''''Skorpion'''''. The model code was accordingly changed to '''SKP-1N'''.
  
 
==Gallery==
 
==Gallery==
 
<gallery>
 
<gallery>
Image:3025scorpion.jpg|Original SCP-1N ''Scorpion'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3025|TRO:3025]]''
+
3025scorpion.jpg|Original [[Unseen]] SCP-1N ''Scorpion'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3025|TRO:3025]]''
Image:SCP-Scorpion.png|SCP-1O ''Scorpion'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3050|TRO:3050]]''
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SCP-Scorpion.png|SCP-1O ''Scorpion'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3050|TRO:3050]]''
Image:Scp-10m scorpion.png|SCP-10M ''Scorpion'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3085|TRO:3085]]''
+
Scorpion RGilClan v19.png|''Scorpion'' from ''[[Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 19|RG:ilClan v19]]''
Image:Scp-12c scorpion.png|SCP-12C ''Scorpion'' from ''[[Technical Readout: Project Phoenix|TRO:Phoenix]]'
+
Scp-10m scorpion.png|SCP-10M ''Scorpion'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3085|TRO:3085]]''
Image:Scp-12s scorpion.jpg|SCP-12S ''Scorpion'' from ''TRO:Phoenix''
+
Scp-12c scorpion.png|SCP-12C ''Scorpion'' from ''[[Technical Readout: Project Phoenix|TRO:Phoenix]]'
Image:Thor vs Scorpion.jpg|A ''Scorpion'' fights a ''[[Summoner]]'' from ''[[Luthien (scenario pack)|Luthien]]'' cover
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Scp-12s scorpion.jpg|SCP-12S ''Scorpion'' from ''TRO:Phoenix''
Image:Scorpion_MACp31.png|A ''Scorpion'' charging into battle from ''[[McCarron's Armored Cavalry (scenario pack)|McCarron's Armored Cavalry]]''
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Camomarikorientehussars.png|''Scorpion'' in colors of [[Oriente Hussars]] from ''[[Camo Specs]]''
 +
Thor vs Scorpion.jpg|A ''Scorpion'' fights a ''[[Summoner]]'' from ''[[Luthien (scenario pack)|Luthien]]'' cover
 +
Scorpion_MACp31.png|A ''Scorpion'' charging into battle from ''[[McCarron's Armored Cavalry (scenario pack)|McCarron's Armored Cavalry]]''
 
</gallery>
 
</gallery>
  
 
==References==
 
==References==
 
<references />
 
<references />
 +
 
==Bibliography==
 
==Bibliography==
 +
{{div col|colwidth=25em}}
 
*''[[BattleMech Manual]]''
 
*''[[BattleMech Manual]]''
 
*''[[Era Digest: Age of War]]''
 
*''[[Era Digest: Age of War]]''
Line 93: Line 113:
 
*''[[Technical Readout: Project Phoenix]]''
 
*''[[Technical Readout: Project Phoenix]]''
 
*''[[Total Warfare Style Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades]]''
 
*''[[Total Warfare Style Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades]]''
 +
{{div col end}}
  
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[[Category:'Mechs]]
 
[[Category:Quad BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Quad BattleMechs]]
[[Category:Skirmisher BattleMechs]]
 
 
[[Category:Free Worlds League BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Free Worlds League BattleMechs]]
[[Category:Inner Sphere General BattleMechs]]
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[[Category:Terran Hegemony BattleMechs]]
[[Category:C3 Equipped BattleMechs]]
 
 
[[Category:Improved C3 Equipped BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Improved C3 Equipped BattleMechs]]
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[[Category:C3 Master Equipped BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:German renamed units]]
 
[[Category:German renamed units]]

Latest revision as of 16:06, 22 March 2024

This article is about the 55-ton BattleMech. For other uses, see Scorpion.
Scorpion (BattleMech)
Scorpion
Production information
Manufacturer Brigadier Corporation[1]

Defiance Industries[1][2]

Production Year 2570[3]
Model SCP-1N
Class Medium
Cost 5,201,800 C-bills
Technical specifications
'Mech type Inner Sphere BattleMech
Mass 55 tons
Chassis Brigadier 800F
Armor 4/Star Slab
Engine VOX 330
Communications System Garret 500A
Targeting Tracking System Garret GRNDTRK 9
Heat Sinks 10 single
Speed 97.2 km/h
Armament
BV (1.0) 786
BV (2.0) 1,019[4][5]


Description[edit]

Introduced and built by the Terran Hegemony in 2570 before the technological renaissance that saw a more open view of quadruped 'Mechs,[6] the Scorpion is an example of an idea that was ahead of its time. The 'Mech was originally intended as a stable weapons platform, but as the model came into service it was relegated to an infantry support role. The design itself was shunned by most MechWarriors due to the rough ride of the four-legged gait, but if the design is looked at through an objective standpoint the Scorpion is a very capable 'Mech for its intended role.[4]

At some point there had been an attempt to create a LAM version of the Scorpion, an unworkable project that was abandoned and quite literally buried in a bunker on Hesperus II. The long-forgotten blueprints and prototype remains were found by chance in 3065. Although the Scorpion LAM project as such had been unsuccessful, it had succeeded in streamlining components and redesigning the leg suspension, and applying these modifications alleviated the famously bumpy ride on the -12S and all subsequent variants.[7]

Weapons and Equipment[edit]

The quadruped Scorpion is built on a Brigadier 800F chassis and powered by a VOX 330 fusion engine, allowing it to move at a top speed of 97.2 km/h, which lets the 'Mech reach good firing positions quickly if pilots can endure the bumpy ride. Protection is provided by seven tons of 4/Star Slab standard armor, and heat is managed by 10 single heat sinks.

The Scorpion carries a very basic, though dangerous, weapons payload. Its primary weapon is an Anderson Armaments PPC which, when combined with the Scorpion's highly stable chassis, makes the 'Mech ideal for close support. For close range combat, the Scorpion carries a Marvel Six-Load SRM-6 which allows the Scorpion to capitalize on any breaches in the enemy's armor.[4] The Scorpion has another, smaller swivel-mount looking tube beneath the cockpit, perhaps intended for a flamer, machine gun, or small laser, but this mount does not actually work and is purely cosmetic; speculation is that it was dropped after the frame was completed and removing it would have slowed down production.

Variants[edit]

  • SCP-1O 
    The SCP-1O, introduced in 3049, is a very basic upgrade of the design which replaces the PPC with an ER PPC. While this gives the Scorpion greater range, it also increases the heat from the ER PPC by 50%, which necessitated the use of double heat sinks. BV (1.0) = 785, BV (2.0) = 1098[8]
  • SCP-1BR 
    This variant uses a light 330 fusion engine to maintain the 97.2 kph standard top speed, but incorporates MASC for short bursts of 129kph. 8 tons of Heavy Ferro-fibrous armor provides adequate, but substandard protection. An ER PPC is mounted in the right torso, alongside a Streak SRM-6. Its one ton of ammunition is carried in the CASE protected left torso. Ten double heatsinks keep the mech cool in most circumstances. BV (2.0) =1,473[9]
  • SCP-1TB 
    This Scorpion uses a pair of light PPCs as its main armament, backed up by an MML-9. A light fusion engine provides power and a MASC system allows it to put on bursts of speed of up to 120 km/h. BV (2.0) = 1,185[10]
  • SCP-2N 
    The 2N utilizes Endo Steel and a Light 330 engine to save weight. A Supercharger is mounted in the left torso and provides quick stints of 129kph. While familiar in layout, the weapons array is all new. A Plasma Rifle and its two tons of ammo are mounted in the right torso underneath a double mounting of MML-3s. Their two tons of ammo is carried in the CASE II magazine in the left torso alongside a TAG designator. 11.5 tons of standard armor provides strong protection. BV (2.0) =1,562[9]
  • SCP-10M 
    This post-Jihad version introduced in 3080 uses an endo steel chassis and XL engine to propel the 'Mech at a top speed of 119 km/h. The use of these lighter components, as well as an XL gyro, allows the Scorpion to carry a heavy PPC, LRM-10, and nine tons of armor. 10 double heat sinks keep the 'Mech's weapons in constant use. BV (2.0) = 1,458[11]
  • SCP-12C 
    Inspired by Defiance Industries producing the new 12S variant, this 3067 Blakist version produced by Brigadier is similar to the original design. The engine has been upgraded to an extralight engine and the armor to ferro-fibrous. The primary weapon has been upgraded to a Magna Firestar ER PPC and the missile rack dropped in favor of ER small laser, an improved Narc missile beacon, and a C3i computer; the heat sinks have been upgraded to double-strength models.[1] This is the first model to include the improvements to the suspension and leg mechanisms derived from the recovered LAM prototype designs. BV (1.0) = 1,058, BV (2.0) = 1,259[12]
  • Scorpion C 
    A Clan wolf variant, the Scorpion C is a fierce combatant at any range. Enhanced with Clan weaponry, this Scorpion hits like no other. A Clan ER PPC enhanced by a PPC Capacitor provides devastating fire from the right torso. The familiar missile mount carries an ATM-6 launcher. Three tons of ammo provide a full range of munitions for the launcher and are protected by CASE II in the left torso. A Micro Pulse Laser is mounted in the left torso as an infantry deterrent. Also carried in the left torso is a Supercharger that provides a 129 kph top speed. Only ten double heatsinks are mounted and they can quickly be overwhelmed. BV (2.0) =2.331[15]

Custom Variants[edit]

Design Quirks[edit]

The Scorpion is subject to the following Design Quirks:[17]

Related BattleMechs[edit]

  • Scorpion LAM - A failed attempt to develop a Land-Air 'Mech version of the Scorpion, this prototype nevertheless led to marked improvements to ride smoothness in later variants of the original.

Notable Pilots[edit]

Notes[edit]

  • Author Blaine Lee Pardoe stated in a blog entry that, according to his memory which he admitted could be wrong, the Scorpion 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.
  • The original Scorpion variants and artwork from 3025 were part of the Unseen 'Mech designs. The Scorpion was Reseen in 3067 with new variants using revised artwork.[19]
  • In German products, the unit's proper name was translated to Skorpion. The model code was accordingly changed to SKP-1N.

Gallery[edit]

References[edit]

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 Technical Readout: Jihad, pp. 120–121: "SCP-12S Scorpion"
  2. Objectives: Lyran Alliance, p. 12
  3. MUL online date for the Scorpion (BattleMech)
  4. 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 Technical Readout: 3039, p. 288
  5. Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged, p. 458
  6. Era Digest: Age of War, p. 11: "BattleMech Tech Timeline"
  7. Technical Readout: Project Phoenix, p. 28
  8. MUL Entry for the SCP-1O Scorpion
  9. 9.0 9.1 Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 19, p. 7
  10. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 70
  11. Technical Readout: 3085, p. 241
  12. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 72
  13. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 73
  14. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 74
  15. Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 19, p. 31
  16. Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged, p. 463
  17. BattleMech Manual, p. 94: Design Quirk Table - Scorpion Entry
  18. Combat Manual: Mercenaries, p. 57
  19. Technical Readout: Project Phoenix

Bibliography[edit]