The
ability to get covert ops into a combat zone quickly, has always been a
plus for any military operation. Back in the early 20th century
on Earth, it started with using a parachute made of a nylon material,
and having troops jump from an aircraft. In the late 21st
century, the development of an interface dropship concept was
conceived. The Arcite Corporation AD-471 Starhawk Dropship.
10 of these dropships were first used to insert FSF (Federal Security
Force), special ops troops from an orbital transport to the Federal
Colony A-T154, to dislodge rebel forces that had taken over the
spaceport. Although the Starhawk performed well enough, the DoM,
(Department of the Military), needed something that could deliver a
punch as well as troops and supplies.
Teirnoc Industries introduced the T-1104 "Albatross" Tactical Assault
Carrier. Primarily a supplies mover to be dropped from orbit by an
interstellar transport ship, the DoM modified the interior to carry
troops, or light armored reconnaissance vehicle(s), up to a maximum of
two (2). This concept was quickly adapted by planetary assault
units, and replaced the aging Starhawks. The T-1104 "Albatross"
can accommodate 2 full squads of 8 men, and a Mission Commander.
Also, an extra two rows of seats can be fitted within the cargo area,
bringing the total to a platoon of troops, but the amount of equipment
is greatly reduced. Armament for the "Albatross" consists of a
top turret with two Chanling Industries ion cannons, (for anti-air
defense), (or if crew particularly ornery, can be used on ground troops
- provided none of the enemy troops survive to report it, as this is
against the Genret Convention); a chin turret mounting an 8.5mm machine
gun connected to the Co-pilot with a HUD helmet; two nose mounted 5.5mm
machine guns and a 20mm autocannon. All three nose mounted
weapons are controlled by the Co-pilot. There is one weapons mount
under each stub wing. Either a pair of 25mm GAC maybe mounted or Rocket
pods, carrying 60mm thermobaric fuel air explosive area rockets. The
Top turret and the under wing weapons are controlled by the Weapons
Officer. The ability for the "Albatross" to be dropped from
orbit, use VTOL to stay on station, and deliver direct fire support,
makes the craft very versatile.
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