Technical readout 2866 Rise of the Scavengers

SHD-2N Shadow Hawk
History:
The Shadow Hawk is the longest continuously produced
BattleMech design in existence. First introduced by
Lang Industries in 2457, only 18 years after the creation
of the first BattleMech, the MSK-5S Mackie, the Shadow
Hawk has a long and storied history. The initial SHD-1R
carried only an Armstrong J-7 AC/5 and a single medium
laser. Commissioned by the Hegemony Armed Forces
the SHD-1R proved a phenomenal success, opening the
door for Lang Industries to bid on many important military
contracts over the coming centuries.
There were, however, problems with the placement of
the armor, most notably around the legs. The myomer
bundles that powered the legs would wear against the
inner surface of the armor causing them to fail
prematurely. Regular replacement of the bundles was
required to keep the ‘Mech operational.
In 2550, Lang Industries completely overhauled the
Shadow Hawk line fixing the problems with the wear on
the myomer bundles and incorporating the latest
advances in engine, cockpit, and armor construction.
The newly christened SHD-2H has remained on the front
lines of the battlefield ever since. Armed with an
Armstrong J-11 medium autocannon, a Holly LRM-5 and
SRM-2, and a Martell medium laser, the SHD-2H can
effectively engage at any range.
With a top speed of 86.4 kph and a respectable jump
capacity of 90 meters, the Shadow Hawk is as equally at
home performing as a scout as it is leading a frontal
assault. The over-the-shoulder mount of the Armstrong
autocannon is also a noteworthy feature. As versatile as
an arm mounted design, the Armstrong can provide fire
in both the front and left side arcs due to its unique
design.
The Sparrow 300J life support system is also well
known. Arguably the most advanced system of its kind,
it keeps the cockpit 30% cooler on average. This not
only keeps the MechWarrior comfortable during long
duty assignments, but also allows the Shadow Hawk to
maintain a withering rate of fire without having to keep a
constant eye on the heat gauge.
In addition, the Shadow Hawk makes a formidable
brawler. One of the few ‘Mechs equipped with two fully
manipulative hand actuators, the Lang actuator system is
the most powerful one available today. This makes it an
excellent choice as a raider, capable of easily picking up
and carrying away supplies. It has even been known to
have been used by technicians as an impromptu repair
platform for repairing other BattleMechs.
Capabilities:
The SHD-2N retains the movement profile, protection,
and the twelve heatsinks of the -2H while significantly
upgrading the weapons.
The Holly LRM-5 is replaced with a larger LRM-10 model
while at the same time upgrading the Holly SRM-2 to a
SRM-4. This is made possible by replacing the
Armstrong autocannon with a Thunderbolt A5M heavy
laser, commonly found on the 80-ton Zeus assault
‘Mech. The only weapon which remains unchanged is
the Martell medium laser carried on the right arm.
A cool running design to begin with, thanks in part to the
Sparrow 300J, the -2N can inflict significantly more
damage at all ranges making it an even more effective
multi-function ‘Mech.
Variants:
Similar in concept to the failed VND-1AA Vindicator
variant, the SHD-2D Shadow Hawk sacrifices armor in
exchange for additional weaponry. Five full tons of
armor are removed, leaving it scarcely more armored
than a 20-ton Locust. In exchange for this loss of
protection, the -2D mounts an additional SRM-2, along
with another ton of ammunition, a second medium laser
in the right arm, and two more heat sinks. The few units
that utilize the variant use it largely as an ambusher. It
unleashes an alpha-strike then quickly retreats.
The -2K variant, developed by House Kurita, is referred
to derogatorily by the Lyran’s as a “Griffin knockoff.”
Carrying only a PPC and an LRM-5 along with 17
heatsinks, the -2K has proven itself a formidable support
machine. Capable of maintaining a constant stream of
punishing long range fire, it had earned grudging respect
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from the LCAF due to the heavy losses it had inflicted on
them.
Current Manufacturers:
Earthwerks Limited
Calloway VI – Free Worlds League
Model Cost BV PV
SHD-2H 4,444,057 1064 30
SHD-2D 4,450,257 899 24
SHD-2K 4,498,307 1147 30
SHD-2N 4,591,307 1238 ???
Alpha Strike Statistics
TP: BM SZ: 2 TMM: +2
MV: 10”/6j” Role: Skirmisher
Damage S: 3 M: 3 L: 1
OV: 1
Armor: O O O O O
Sructure: O O O O O
Special: IF1, LRM 0*/1/1, SRM 1/1