Seabass
Seabass Flying Submersible | |
Production information | |
Manufacturer | Irian BattleMechs Unlimited |
Equipment Rating | |
Use | "Flying Submersible" failed prototype |
Tech Base | Inner Sphere |
Cost | |
Introduced | 3071 |
Technical specifications | |
Mass | 20 tons |
Engine (Type) | Fusion engine |
Fuel | 222 - 4 tons |
Communications System | ??? |
Targeting Tracking System | ??? |
Heat Sinks | 3 |
Armament | 1x Medium Laser |
Armor | ??? |
Crew | 3 |
BV (1.0) | |
BV (2.0) |
Description
The SBA-4S Seabass was a flying submersible. It was Irian's latest vision of the future, allowing one vehicle to patrol the sky and the ocean.[1]
An attempt to develop a conventional fighter aircraft that could also be utilized underwater, the Seabass prototype developed a failure during its first test flight, causing the seal around the cockpit door to become damaged.[2]
The first test run started out well, with Jake "Flash" Wagner piloting the vehicle underwater. After rising to the surface, he was able to get airborne after a kilometer of taxiing on the surface. Once aloft, the craft flew well but not spectacularly. Following a few minutes of flight, Wagner landed on the water and re-submerged the craft at 15 knots. He reported some control issues and was never heard from again. Divers retrieved his body and the vehicle data recorder from the wreckage. Irian promised a complete investigation of the incident, but the project died here.[1] Afterwards, this death and a highly publicized lawsuit against Irian Technologies by the pilot's widow coupled with the disappointing results of the tests leading up to the fatal incident led to Irian cancelling the project.[2]
Weapons and Equipment
Choosing to keep the prototype simple, the Seabass uses very few advanced technologies besides its Amphibious and Submersible Chassis Modification, carrying a single Medium Laser as its only offensive weapon.[2]
Design Quirks
The Seabass is subject to the following Design Quirks:[2]