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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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