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| Spec DATA |
| Role: Air-dominance
fighter Armament:
4 x heavy StratoSpear meduim AA
missiles and 1 x Twin light
Blaster turret (360degrees)
warheads:
Anti-aircraft- frak-frag
Crew:2, pilot &
weapons officer
Sensors:
Multi-sensor (inc. Nanometric
radar & IR), advanced
Speed: Fast
(215kph)
Armour: Medium
advanced-plastics
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| Development
info. |
| Concept & Model
artist: Haydn Modelling
software: Z-Modeller
Date of first
model: 02/02
Model status: Ready
for testing
Incorporated into
presentation engine: Not
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Perhaps
the meanest piece of metal flying around the AbsCnC
skies, the IDC Mantis heavy fighter is more of a
compromise than might first be apparent. Because the
powerful medium range missiles that the IDC prefers for
it's fighters have become heavier as well as more
sophisticated, they are not suitable for traditional
light agile fighters (such as the IKA's Gnat). Therefore
the Mantis is more of a fast bomber fitted for air-air
combat than a purpose designed fighter. It trades agility
for comparative weapons range and armour over the Gnat.
Because the SkySpear missiles can only be fired at
targets in the frontal arc, a blaster-turret is fitted to
give all-round close in defence.
Although the Mantis has good speed, ideal for
intercepting heavy bombers, it is more often deployed
circling a strategic or tactical position, waiting to
pounce on passing enemy aircraft.
The Mantis will implement aircraft turrets and maybe
pre-scripted attack manoeuvres. It is a very complex and
challenging unit to code.
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