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Ripper

Armament:

2 Omicron 950 Medium Lasers

Manufacturer:    Aldis Industries

   Location:    Terra

Communications System:    Datacom 100

Targeting & Tracking System: Tarmac Quasar V

Overview:

         The Ripper grew out of the Star League's need for a VTOL aircraft that could carry a squad of men and equipment into a battle and emerge intact. Design specifications issued in 2680 called for a craft with quick response and reliability, using proven components.
         The Ripper normally carries elite infantry units and jump infantry squads, which need quick deployment or retrieval. The Ripper is so fast and maneuverable that the infantry compartment has special acceleration couches to handle the high Gs. The Ripper has fusion power, part of the vehicle's high price tag, and Ferro-Fibrous armor. Though this is not standard for VTOLs, special armor has made the Ripper stable and strong enough to endure the stresses created by eager pilots.

Capabilities:

         Though heavily armored for a VTOL, the Ripper cannot survive against the firepower of a 'Mech, or even a well-equipped infantry squad. A small laser can down the craft with two shots.
         When the Ripper begins its descent, its twin lasers fire around the fringes of the landing zone. The pilot keeps his speed high for as long as possible,. When the Ripper reaches the landing zone, the pilot pitches the rotot forward, slamming the throttle full open. This air brake sends lose components flying, but the tactic reduces the time the aircraft is exposed to enemy fire. The pilot slams the craft down, cutting the rotors for ten seconds. The engineer, who rides in the infantry compartment, hustles the squad out the door, throwing equipment after the departing soldiers. In seconds, the engineer is strapping himself back in as the craft prepares to take off. The pilot usually angles to the left, tilting the craft to spill any remaining pieces of equipment or lingering infantry men. Once airborne, the pilot again fires the lasers the craft quickly gains altitude.

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Type/Model:	Ripper
Mass:	10 tons

Equipment:		Items	Mass
Internal Structure:	5 pts Standard	0	1.00
Engine:	70 Fusion	0	2.00
Shielding & Trans Equip:		0	1.00
Cruise MP:	12
Flank MP:	18
Heat Sinks:	10 Single	0	.00
Cockpit & Controls:		0	.50
Crew:	1 Members	0	.00
Rotor Equipment:		0	1.00
Armor Factor:	27 pts Ferro-Fibrous	2	1.50