The Layartebian Defense Corporation: Export Division

[Layarteb]

Layartebian Defense Corporation
Export Division

Introduction

The Layartebian Defense Corporation was created following the establishment of the Empire. Under an executive order, all independent defense contractors were merged into a single, government-enforced monopoly. Notable companies that merged into the LDC were Heckler & Koch: Layarteb, Colt, Bushmaster, Springfield Armory, Grumman, Northrop, Boeing, General Dynamics, McDonnell Douglas, Rockwell, and Lockheed. As such, the Layartebian Defense Corporation is the single arms manufacturer in the Empire of Layarteb with 51% of its shares being owned by the Layartebian government. Laws and regulations built into the LDC mandate that, at all times, the Layartebian government will retain 51% ownership of the corporation. As an enforced monopoly, it has no competition within the borders of the Empire. All foreign exports require direct approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Layartebian Defense Corporation is heavily criticized primarily because of its export division. Until recently, the Layartebian Defense Corporation remained in the top 5 exporters of arms throughout the world. Recently, their position has declined to the top 10 mainly due to a rise of a number of competing firms throughout the world. Because all exports must be approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Empire is anti-leftists, many nations, even those in dire needs of arms for self-preservation, have been denied exports.

Facts & Figures

• Type: Public (LCSE: MG)
• Founded: 1981
• Headquarters: Falls Church, Virginia
• CEO: Nicholas Ireland
• Industry: Arms Manufacturing
• Products: Weapons
• Revenue: §959.920 billion (2008)
• Net Income: §390.15 billion (2008)
• Employees: 900,000
• Slogan: "Defending the Empire"
• Website: www.ldc.eol

Rules & Regulations

The Export Division of the Layartebian Defense Corporation is the only authorized exporter of arms and equipment from the Empire of Layarteb. The Layartebian Defense Corporation manufactures arms and equipment ranging from simple small arms to complex, strategic bombers and aircraft carriers. Many of these systems are exportable throughout the world. Please review our policies and abide by them when ordering. It is our goal to serve you but we cannot do that without your cooperation. Please read all of the rules and regulations before posting to avoid embarrassment.

• We do not sell to socialist, communist, left-wing nations, or those on the Empire's blacklist. The Layartebian Defense Corporation reserves the right to deny sale to any country without reason stated.
• All posts must be made in roleplay form with the following information nation name, tech level, region, items, and total cost. Those not will be ignored.
• You must do you own math when placing an order. Orders that do not contain mathematical breakdowns will be ignored.
• All prices are in Nation-States Dollar ($) form versus Layartebian Shingrot (§).
• Please purchase logically and do not order something like 16,000,000 tanks.
• The Layartebian Defense Corporation does not offer production rights for any system. Please do not ask for them.
• All equipment and systems are modern-tech.
• Discounts cannot be combined.
• Discounts include: The October Alliance (25%), Haven Region (5%), New York Region (5%)

OOC: I am looking for someone to do a real, official logo with something not unlike what I have posted above. A designed logo will garner a lifetime discount of 20% on all items.

[Layarteb]

Catalogue of Items

Aircraft

• F-53 Griffon [Original Design]
• F-54 Adder [Original Design]
• F-55 Shooting Star [Original Design]
• F-58 Viper [Original Design]

Land Systems

• M2061 Reaver [Original Design] [Wikistates Page]

Naval Systems

• Piranha Class [Original Design]
• Ra Class [Original Design]

Weaponry

• Mark 205 Close-In Weapons System (CIWS) [Original Design]

[Layarteb]

F-53 Griffon

Overview

The Griffon program came about in the early 1990s following an air force review of the venerable T-38 Talon. The world's first and most capable supersonic trainer, the T-38A Talon had been in service with the Layartebian Air Force since 1958. Thirty-five years later, in 1993 an air force review concluded that the T-38A Talon could serve through 2020 if it were to undergo a modernization. This program evolved the T-38A into the T-38C Talon and included adding a HUD, GPS, Internal Navigation System, Traffic Collision Avoidance System, as well as an engine upgrade. Despite its ability to remain in service through 2020, air force brass decided that it would begin a replacement program, which would seek to create a supersonic trainer that could be as nimble, capable, and reliable as the T-38 Talon, which boasts one of the safest records for a fixed wing aircraft.

In 1997, the Griffon program began with an original intention to simply create a two-seat, combat-capable, supersonic trainer. However, the Layartebian Defense Corporation had broader ideas. Among many of the designs evaluated was its D-1882 design, a prototype light-tactical fighter, which eventually lost out to the F-16 modernization program in the 1980s. The design was modernized and proposed as the YF-53, with many advances. Designed to be inexpensive and export-capable, the YF-53 would not use many of the Layartebian Defense Corporation's more advanced avionics and flight systems, many of them deemed classified. The Griffon program was therefore extremely successful and though the fighter was not picked up by the ILAF, the trainer was, eventually and slowly phasing out the T-38 Talon from 2002 to 2008.

Airframe

The Griffon uses a very conventional airframe design. It has a single tail, two engines, a pair of intakes underneath the wings, and an otherwise conventional design that is similar to the F/A-18 Hornet and F-16 Falcon. Because of this, the Griffon is an inexpensive and easily maintained aircraft with many common parts. Due to advances in stealth technology and construction, the airframe is made of mainly composites, coated with radar absorbant paints. This allows the aircraft to be slightly more stealthy than the F/A-18 Super Hornet. The air intakes are built much like they are on the Raptor, shielding the fan blades from radar. The nose is streamlined and the canopy is plated with gold to reduce its radar signature. The raised canopy gives excellent visibility, far better than most fighters in operation. Pilots can see approximately 20° more to their rear than in other fighters like the F-16 Falcon and F-22 Raptor.

The airframe is nonetheless, small. The Griffon is, from nose to tail 50.00 feet (15.24 meters). It has a wingspan of 33.75 feet (10.29 meters) and a height of 14.50 feet (4.42 meters). The aircraft maintains good low-speed performance but not as good as the F/A-18 Super Hornet, which has a wing area of 500.00 square feet (46.45 square meters). The Griffon has a wing area of 290.00 square feet (26.94 square meters) but has a better thrust to weight ratio over the F/A-18 Super Hornet. Designed to take off from rugged airstrips, including highways and dirt strips, the Griffon has a very short take-off run and landing run, is equipped with very rugged landing gear. Empty weight of the aircraft is 22,000.00 pounds (9,979 kilograms) and its maximum weight is 42,200 pounds (19,141.60 kilograms).

Avionics

The Griffon uses common avionics, which can be obtained throughout the world. This is done to lower the cost and allow for better interchangability throughout the world.

Its main system is the AN/APG-81 Active Electronically Scanned Array, used in the F-35 Lightning II. This phased array radar has highly advanced air to air and air to ground capabilities and provides the Griffon with the ability to engage and destroy both aerial and ground targets with a low probability of intercept. Capabilities of the AN/APG-81 include the AN/APG-77's air-to-air modes plus advanced air-to-ground modes including high resolution mapping, multiple ground moving target detection and track, combat identification, electronic warfare, and ultra high bandwidth communications. The AN/APG-81 comes with a synthetic aperture radar (SAR) terrain mapping function for air-to-surface surveillance and targeting. It is comparable to the terrain mapping radar used in reconnaissance aircraft, unmanned air vehicles, and the E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (Joint STARS) aircraft. Another mode is the "inverse SAR" mode used to detect and identify surface vessels at sea. As the name implies, it works opposite the SAR mode, in which the radar software forms a composite picture of a ground target based on the movement of the aircraft. Inverse SAR works to form a composite picture of the ship based on how it moves through the sea. For air-to-air operations, the APG-81 will support such features as passive search and multitarget, and beyond-visual-range tracking and targeting. It also will support a cued search feature, in which the radar is cued toward another sensor's line of sight. That other sensor can be onboard, offboard or pilot-directed. Because the radar beam can move from point to point in millionths of a second, the Griffon pilot can view a single target as many as 15 times a second.

In addition to this highly advanced radar, the Griffon also has an infrared search and track unit. It utilizes the PIRATE IRST, first debuted in the Eurofighter Typhoon, which is amongst the most advanced IRST units in the world. Mounted on the nose of the aircraft, the PIRATE IRST can detect aircraft based on their infrared signature from well beyond visual range and display that information to the pilot without giving off any active signals, making the Griffon a formidible air defense fighter. Leveraging state-of-the-art technologies, the PIRATE (Passive Infra-Red Airborne Tracking Equipment) combines the functionalities of a IRST and the ones of a FLIR (Foward Looking Infra-Red). The PIRATE is compact enough to install the electronics inside the aircraft, while the searching head of the sensor emerges on the left nose in front of the windshield. The PIRATE scans across wavelengths from 3 to 11 µm in two bands and can track as many as 200 targets, simultaneously. It has a theorhetical maximum range of 92.00 miles (148.06 kilometers) against supersonic, high-altitude aircraft such as the SR-71 Blackbird but an effective range of between 35.00 miles (56.33 kilometers) and 60.00 miles (96.57 kilometers) against subsonic aircraft flying at medium altitudes. The PIRATE has five modes: Multiple Target Track (MTT), Single Target Track (STT), Single Target Track Ident (STTI), Sector Acquisition, and Slaved Acquisition. In MTT mode the system will scan a designated volume space looking for potential targets. In STT mode PIRATE will provide high precision tracking of a single designated target. An addition to this mode, STT Ident allows for visual identification of the target, the resolution being superior to that provided by CAPTOR. Both Sector and Slave Acquisition demonstrate the level of sensor fusion present in the Griffon. When in Sector Acquisition mode PIRATE will scan a volume of space under direction of another Griffon sensor such as CAPTOR. In Slave Acquisition the use of off-board sensors is made with PIRATE being commanded by data obtained from an AWACS for example. When a target is found in either of these modes PIRATE will automatically designate it and switch to STT. Once a target has been tracked and identified PIRATE can be used to cue an appropriately equipped short range missile (i.e. a missile with a high off-boresight tracking capability such as ASRAAM). Additionally the data can be used to augment that of the AN/APG-81 or off-board sensor information via the AIS. This should enable the Griffon to overcome severe ECM environments and still engage its targets.

Augmenting both the AN/APG-81 and the PIRATE IRST, the Griffon is also equipped with a powerful electro-optical targeting system (EOTS), borrowed from the F-35 Lightning II. The EOTS incorporates day/night passive sensors, unable to be detected by enemy warning systems. Providing high-resolution infrared imagery that is software-enhanced through signal processing, EOTS can give the Griffon pilot a closer look at the target area initially detected by the radar. It can also provide powerful identification means for ground targets as well as provide GPS coordinates for other aircraft. The EOTS used on the Griffon is slightly different than that used on the Lightning II. The EOTS used on the Lightning II incorporates an air-to-surface FLIR tracker and air-to-air IRST system. It also includes a single aperture design and advanced, third-generation focal plane array, as well as a "spot tracker," capable of tracking a laser beam directed by a remote source. The EOTS on the Griffon dispenses with the IRST system and refines the system more for an identification system, howevering it keeps all other features of the Lightning II EOTS.

The Griffon is also equipped with a state-of-the-art IFF (Identify Friend or Foe) system, which can be programmed to that of any air force.

For defensive systems, the Griffon is equipped with more state-of-the-art systems. It carries a powerful radar warning receiver (RWR) and laser warning receiver (LWR), which enables it to accurately detect both radar and laser lock-ons. Laser lock-ons are increasingly common and are used to slew the gun of the Fulcrum and Flanker series aircraft, guide certain surface-to-air missiles, and even provide proximity for warhead detonation. The RWR provides limited detection against Low-Probability of Intercept radars such as the AN/APG-81 used on it and the Lightning II, the AN/APG-77 used on the F-22 Raptor, and various other AESA radars.

The Griffon also has a missile aproach warning system (MAW). The MAW detector portion of the system is a step-stare infra-red sensor operating in the 3-5µm frequency range allowing for both air to air and surface to air missile detection up to the post-burn-out phase. Over 64 targets can be tracked simultaneously and through a built-in threat library they can also be determined.

These systems provide an invisible 3D, 360° sphere around the Griffon, which enables the integrated avionics system to determine how best to react to airborne and surface threats. The system can provide accurate early warning, which enables the pilot to take proper evasive maneuvers.

These systems provide just detection capabilities to the Griffon and do not deal with evasion. Evasion is handled by two primary systems. The first is the AN/ALQ-187 self-protection electronic countermeasures system. Mounted internally near the tail of the aircraft, the AN/ALQ-187 detects and defends the aircraft from surface-to-air missiles, anti-aircraft artillery, and air-to-air missiles. The AN/ALQ-187 ECM system provides the Griffon with full 360° coverage against missile and artillery threats.

The second system is the oldest defensive system employed by aircraft and it uses expendables such as chaff bundles and flares. Chaff bundles act to confuse radar guided missiles. It comprises thousands of small pieces of aluminium cut to a length appropriate for air interception radar frequencies. These shards, when dropped by an aircraft, can lead to false returns appearing on the enemy fighters radar. Although this technique is now quite old it is often still very effective. However, modern radar's featuring modern digital signal processing will be fooled far less easily than they once were, which is why they are used in conjunction with ECM systems. The Griffon carries 320 bundles, compressed into its two wingtip pylons. The wingtip pylon rails are based on the LAU-138 design, which are, in turn, based on the BOL high-capacity dispenser. Each rail holds 160 chaff bundles and can mount missiles up to 400 pounds (181 kilograms). For use against infrared guided missiles, the Griffon uses flares, which are dropped from the rear of the aircraft and provide a hotter heat signature than the aircraft and carries 60 of them underneath its engines. This is meant to confuse infrared guided missiles, which are attracted by the hottest heat source in the sky. However, against missiles using imaging capabilities, such as the ASRAAM or AIM-9X Sidewinder, flares are far less effective. They are primarily for use against low-altitude SAMs.

The Griffon is not fitted with either an infrared or laser jamming system. However, these systems can be carried externally in pod form as well as many others. The Griffon features five hardpoints capable of mounting pods for ECM, expendables, or avionics. Its centerline hardpoint, two fuselage, and two inner wing hardpoints are all capable of carried external ECM or avionics pods. Such pods include laser targetting systems, FLIR pods, ECM pods, chaff or flare dispeners, reconnaissance pods, and various other systems, including the LANTIRN system, which can be mounted on the fuselage hardpoints with relative ease.

Cockpit

The Griffon has a very advanced cockpit. Designed with the idea that it would be a single-seat fighter, most of its functionalities are similar to those of the Lightning II and Raptor. The pilot sits on an ACES III zero/zero ejection seat, reclined to provide better comfort during high-G maneuvers, as seen on the F-16 Fighting Falcon. The ACES III provides a major advancement over the ACES II in that it allows pilots to eject at speeds above 700 miles per hour (1,126 kph) whereas the ACES II was limited to under 700 miles per hour. It can provide limited supersonic ejection but at severe risk to the pilot due to aerodynamic speeds. It has all of the other main features of the ACES II except for technological improvements.

The digital cockpit features three MFDs and is laid out much like that of the F/A-18E Super Hornet. In two-seat aircraft it is similar to the F/A-18F Super Hornet.

Engines and Fuel

The Griffon is powered by a pair of General Electric F414-GE-400 afterburning turbofans, the same engines used on the Super Hornet. However, unlike the Super Hornet, these engines provide a much higher thrust to weight ratio, because of the lower weight of the Griffon. Dry thrust produced by these engines is on the order of 14,000 pounds (62.28 kN) and up to 22,000 pounds (97.86 kN) with afterburning. This gives the Griffon a total dry thrust of 28,000 pounds (124.55 kN) and 44,000 pounds (195.72 kN) with afterburner. Originally, the Griffon was to be powered by two General Electric F110-GE-129, which would have provided up to 58,000 pounds (258.00 kN) of thrust with afterburner but these were deemed too powerful and would have reduced the range significantly. There was even an evaluation program for a pair of General Electric F110-GE-132 engines, which would have given an impressive 65,000 pounds (289.13 kN) of thrust with afterburners.

The F414 engines used by the Griffon offer excellent low-speed and low-thrust performance. When combined with the high lift of the Super Hornet, they can allow a pilot to fly even slower than the normal stall speed of a fighter, allowing for ease when landing on aircraft carriers. As this is not the mission of the Griffon, this capability is not fully present.

The Griffon has the ability to refuel in midair and carries 7,000 pounds (3,175 kilograms) of fuel internally. Mounting three 370-gallon (1,400 liter) drop-tanks, the Griffon can supplement its fuel load by 104%, giving it nearly double its combat range. Using strictly internal fuel, the Griffon can fly 800 miles (1,287 kilometers) and back.

The Griffon is not fitted with thrust vectoring as standard but its nozzles can be easily adapted to provide pitch-axis thrust vectoring for ±25°, which is 10° more than the F-22 Raptor. Because of this, the Griffon can dogfight very effectively.

Because of the power of its engines, the Griffon features a thrust-to-weight ratio of 2.00:1 when empty and 1.04:1 at maximum weight. On an air defense mission, the ratio is around 1.21:1.

Performance

The Griffon emphasizes modest performance. Due to its design and its limitations, it cannot perform as well as many modern dogfighters in the world but it is no slouch. The Griffon has a maximum ceiling of 55,000 feet (16,764 meters) and can fly as fast as 1,188 miles per hour or Mach 1.80 (1,912 kph) at altitude. At sea level, the Griffon is limited to Mach 1.15 or 874 miles per hour (1,407 kph). It is not designed to be a high-speed fighter.

However, it is highly agile and can fly through -4Gs and +9Gs. Theorhetically, the aircraft can pull up to +11Gs but this is unconfirmed. Because of its small size and general configuration, the Griffon can climb as fast as 50,000 feet per minute (15,240 meters per minute). It has a takeoff run of 1,300 feet (396 meters) and a landing distance of 1,000 feet (305 meters). It is not equipped with a drag chute but it can be if needed by installing a pack to the left side of the tail.

The Griffon is also a stealthy aircraft. It features a radar cross section equal to that of the Super Hornet and a much smaller overall cross section than the Super Hornet due to its smaller size.

Variants

The primary variant of the Griffon is the F-53A, a single-seat multirole fighter that costs $40,000,000.00. It is also available in a two-seat variant, the F-53B, which costs the same. Lastly, the third variant is the T-53C, a two-seat trainer derived from the F-53B. Physically, the T-53C is no different than the F-53B. The T-53C is a fully combat capable trainer and could be used for air to air or air to ground sorties. It does feature some additional equipment and costs $36,000,000.00. They are cleared for export at $4,000,000.00 higher than domestic costs.

Weapons

The most formidible part of the Griffon is its weapons system. The Griffon can carry both air to air and air to ground ordinance and carries up to 13,200 pounds (5,987 kilograms) of ordinance on nine external pylons. It has a centerline hardpoint for up to 2,800 pounds (1,270 kilograms) of ordinance ranging from a pair of medium or long-range air to air missiles, bombs, fuel tanks, or mission pods. There are two fuselage hardpoints for air to air missiles or mission pods, each rated at 600 pounds (272 kilograms). On its wings it carries four hardpoints for both air to air and air to ground ordinance, the two innermost rated for 3,000 pounds each (1,361 kilograms) and the outer two rated for 1,500 pounds (680 kilograms) each. Lastly, the Griffon has two wingtip hardpoints, each rated for up to 400 pounds (181 kilograms), strictly for air to air ordinance.

The Griffon also has an internal cannon. The M88A1 Advanced Rotary Cannon, originally designed with the RAH-66 Commanche program is a three-barrel, Gatling gun that fires 20x139 millimeter shells as fast as 1,040 meters per second, as far as 4,000 meters and at speeds ranging from 750, 1,500, 3,000, 4,500, or 6,000 rounds per minute. Normally loaded with 480 rounds, the Griffon's pilot can select through these five firing rates, depending on the threat, with an effective range of 2,500 meters.

The Griffon can carry many missiles as well. It can carry as many as four medium or long range air to air missiles, such as the AIM-120 AMRAAM or Meteor BVRAAM on its centerline and two fuselage hardpoints. It can also mount eight of these missiles on its four wing pylons and up to two on its wingtip pylons. Aside from the AMRAAM and Meteor, the aircraft can also carry the older and heavier Skyflash and Sparrow SARH missiles although it can only carry four on its centerline and fuselage hardpoints and another four on its four wing pylons. None of these can be mounted on its wingtip pylons. The aircraft can also carry as many as eight AIM-9 Sidewinder, AIM-132 ASRAAM, or IRIS-T missiles on its four wing pylons and up to two on its wingtip pylons. With a maximum air to air load, the Griffon can carry as many as fourteen air to air missiles. A typical combat configuration will mount a pair of medium-range missiles on its fuselage hardpoints and possibly two on the centerline hardpoint, four on its outer wing hardpoints, a pair of short-range missiles on its wingtip pylons and two or three external fuel tanks on the inner wing and possibly centerline hardpoint, depending on the threat.

For air to ground ordinance, the Griffon can carry sophisticated weapons such as the AGM-84 Harpoon and the AGM-84 SLAM, the AGM-158 JASSM, AGM-154 JSOW, Paveway series guided bombs, JDAM series guided bombs, and the AGM-65 Maverick on its four wing pylons. Its centerline pylon can carry the Harpoon, SLAM, JSOW, or JASSM missile as well as unguided or guided bombs. The only hardpoints incapable of mounting air to ground ordinance are its two fuselage and two wingtip pylons, which are strictly for air to air weapons only.

Because of the Griffon's advanced avionics systems, it can, theorhetically, carry any weapon in any arsenal, providing it does not exceed size or weight restrictions.

Procurement Costs

F-53A Griffon: $44,000,000.00
F-53B Griffon: $44,000,000.00
T-53C Griffon: $40,000,000.00

Specifications

Status: Never entered service [A/B] In-service [C]
Role: Fighter [A/B]; Trainer [C]
Crew: 1 [A]; 2 [B/C]
Cost: $40,000,000.00 [A/B]; $36,000,000.00 [C]
Length: 50.00 ft.
Wingspan: 33.75 ft.
Height: 14.50 ft.
Empty Weight: 22,000.00 lb.
Fuel Weight: 7,000.00 lb.
Armament Weight: 13,200.00 lb.
Maximum Weight: 42,200.00 lb.
Powerplant: Two General Electric F414-GE-400 afterburning turbofans
Maximum Military Thrust: 28,000.00 lb.
Maximum Afterburner Thrust: 44,000.00 lb.
Thrust to Weight Ratio: 2.00:1 [empty]; 1.04:1 [max weight]
Maximum Speed @ S/L: 874 mph
Maximum Speed @ Altitude: 1,200 mph
Initial Climb Rate: 50,000 ft./min
Ceiling: 55,000.00 ft.
Combat Range: 800.00 mi
Ferry Range: 1,600.00 mi.
Take-Off Run: 1,300.00 ft.
Landing Run: 1,000.00 ft.
Drag Chute: No
G-Limits: -4 / +9
Gun: 1 M88A1 Advanced Rotary Cannon with 480 rounds
External Stations: 1 centerline hardpoint for up to 2,800 lb. of ordinance, 2 fuselage hardpoints for up to 600 lb. each of air-to-air munitions, 2 inner wing hardpoints for up to 3,000 lb. each, 2 outer wing hardpoints for up to 1,500 lb. each, and 2 wingtip hardpoints for up to 400 lb. each
Air-to-Air Stores: Up to 2 AIM-120 AMRAAM or Meteor BVRAAM missiles on centerline hardpoint, up to 2 AIM-120 AMRAAM or Meteor BVRAAM missiles on fuselage hardpoints, up to 8 AIM-9 Sidewinder, AIM-120 AMRAAM, AIM-132 ASRAAM, IRIS-T, or Meteor BVRAAM missiles on wing hardpoints and up to 2 AIM-9 Sidewinder, AIM-120 AMRAAM, AIM-132 ASRAAM, or IRIS-T missiles on wingtip hardpoints
Air-to-Ground Stores: Up to 11,800 lb. of ordinance on centerline and wing hardpoints
Other Stores: Up to 3 370-gallon fuel tanks, ECM pods, or avionics pods on centerline and inner wing hardpoints
Avionics: AN/APG-81 Active Electronically Scanned Array, PIRATE Infrared Search and Track, EOTS Electro-optical system
ECM: AN/ALQ-187 Jammer
Chaff Bundles: 320
Flares: 60
Radar Signature: Same as F/A-18 Super Hornet

[Layarteb]

F-54 Adder

Overview

The Adder program began early in the 1990s to develop a new light attack aircraft as well as a new 2.75" rocket system. The rocket system was available before the year 2000 but the aircraft development was halted, slowed, and canceled several times along the years until 2004, when the program resumed. The Adder 2.75" rocket system, by then, had fully replaced the CRV7 in the Imperial Layartebian Military and bolstered increased performance over the CRV7, which was, until then, considered the state-of-the-art 2.75" rocket system in the world, above the Hydra-70.

The initial requirement for the Adder program was to produce an inexpensive, light-weight, easy-to-operate, rugged, attack aircraft that could fly air-to-air missions as well as air-to-ground missions. This mulitrole aircraft was dubbed the YF-54 when it first rolled out of the factory and began flight testing. The goal of the Adder was to replace aging F-20A Tigershark aircraft already in clandestine service as counter-insurgency (COIN) aircraft. The Adder would be marketed to rebel armies around the world in order to give them a gain in power against their anti-Layartebian rulers. However, by the time the Adder was ready, this market had virtually eroded.

Regardless, development of the Adder continued until it was finally introduced into service in late 2007, beginning low-rate, initial production in November. By May 2008, it would be in full production and full service.

Airframe

The Adder is of classical swept-wing and empennage monoplane design and light alloy construction with carbon fibre control surfaces. Kevlar armour protection is fitted to the engines, cockpit and avionics compartment. The moderately swept high-lift wing and the all-moving low-mounted tail plane allow the pilot to choose high angles of attack. For short airfield performance the aircraft is equipped with leading edge slats and three-position Fowler flaps. The Fowler flaps are split flaps which move rearward and then downward on tracks to give a large increase in lift and high lift and drag for landing maneuvers.

The Adder's airframe is relatively small and offers a good amount of wing area, providing extra lift for short-field operations. The rugged landing gear of the Adder allow it to operate from roads and dirt strips with relative ease, even at maximum weight. Composites are mainly used in the construction to reduce RCS and strength the airframe of the aircraft.

Avionics

The Adder uses common avionics, which can be obtained throughout the world. This is done to lower the cost and allow for better interchangability throughout the world.

Its main system is the AN/APG-66 radar, which first debuted on the F-16 Fighting Falcon. The AN/APG-66 is a solid state, medium-range, pulse-Doopler radar. It operates between a frequency of 6.2 to 10.9 GHz. The model in use by the Adder is slightly less, in terms of range capability due to a lower power source but it is highly capable of both air-to-air and air-to-surface modes.

There is an upgrade radar available. This is the AN/APG-65 radar, which first debuted on the F/A-18 Hornet. The AN/APG-65 is an I band, pulse-Doppler radar that has been proven in the F/A-18 since the early 1980s when it was first declared operational. For air-to-air operations the radar incorporates a variety of search, track and track-while-scan modes to give the pilot a complete look-down/shoot-down capability. Air-to-surface modes include Doppler beam sharpened sector and patch mapping, medium range synthetic aperture radar, fixed and moving ground target track and sea surface search. The maximum range for the radar is determined to be around 80.00 miles (128.75 km) for air to air modes and approximately 40.00 miles (64.37 km) for air to ground modes. The Adder retains the sea search capabilities of the AN/APG-65 for interdiction missions against drug running boats or cargo vessels off the coast.

The second system is the addition of a forward looking infrared device. This sensor allows the Adder to detect its targets strictly through infrared radiation, allowing it to remain undetected in high threat enviornments. The FLIR also allows the Adder to target armored vehicles and aircraft more effectively at close ranges and in adverse weather conditions. The range of the FLIR is under 25.00 miles (40.23 km).

The Adder is also equipped with a state-of-the-art IFF (Identify Friend or Foe) system, which can be programmed to that of any air force.

For defensive systems, the Adder is equipped with more state-of-the-art systems. It carries a powerful radar warning receiver (RWR) and laser warning receiver (LWR), which enables it to accurately detect both radar and laser lock-ons. Laser lock-ons are increasingly common and are used to slew the gun of the Fulcrum and Flanker series aircraft, guide certain surface-to-air missiles, and even provide proximity for warhead detonation. The RWR provides limited detection against Low-Probability of Intercept radars such as the AN/APG-81 used on it and the Lightning II, the AN/APG-77 used on the F-22 Raptor, and various other AESA radars.

The Adder also has a missile aproach warning system (MAW). The MAW detector portion of the system is a step-stare infra-red sensor operating in the 3-5µm frequency range allowing for both air to air and surface to air missile detection up to the post-burn-out phase. Over 64 targets can be tracked simultaneously and through a built-in threat library they can also be determined.

These systems provide an invisible 3D, 360° sphere around the Adder, which enables the integrated avionics system to determine how best to react to airborne and surface threats. The system can provide accurate early warning, which enables the pilot to take proper evasive maneuvers.

These systems provide just detection capabilities to the Adder and do not deal with evasion. Evasion is handled by two primary systems. The first is the AN/ALQ-165 Airborne Self-Protection Jammer. The AN/ALQ-165 ASPJ is an automated modular reprogrammable active radar frequency (RF) deception jammer designed to contribute to the electronic self protection of the host tactical aircraft from a variety of air to air and surface to air RF threats.

The second system is the oldest defensive system employed by aircraft and it uses expendables such as chaff bundles and flares. Chaff bundles act to confuse radar guided missiles. It comprises thousands of small pieces of aluminium cut to a length appropriate for air interception radar frequencies. These shards, when dropped by an aircraft, can lead to false returns appearing on the enemy fighters radar. Although this technique is now quite old it is often still very effective. However, modern radar's featuring modern digital signal processing will be fooled far less easily than they once were, which is why they are used in conjunction with ECM systems. The Adder carries 60 bundles in its AN/ALE-47 dispenser. For use against infrared guided missiles, the Adder uses flares, which are dropped from the rear of the aircraft and provide a hotter heat signature than the aircraft and carries 60 of them underneath its engines. This is meant to confuse infrared guided missiles, which are attracted by the hottest heat source in the sky. However, against missiles using imaging capabilities, such as the ASRAAM or AIM-9X Sidewinder, flares are far less effective. They are primarily for use against low-altitude SAMs.

The Adder is not fitted with either an infrared or laser jamming system. However, these systems can be carried externally in pod form as well as many others. The Adder features eight hardpoints capable of mounting pods for ECM, expendables, or avionics.

Cockpit

The Adder is fitted with a fully digital cockpit. It is a two-seat aircraft and the pilots sit on an ACES III zero/zero ejection seat, reclined to provide better comfort during high-G maneuvers, as seen on the F-16 Fighting Falcon. The ACES III provides a major advancement over the ACES II in that it allows pilots to eject at speeds above 700 miles per hour (1,126 kph) whereas the ACES II was limited to under 700 miles per hour. It can provide limited supersonic ejection but at severe risk to the pilot due to aerodynamic speeds. It has all of the other main features of the ACES II except for technological improvements. The layout of the cockpit is similar to that of the F/A-18F Super Hornet although the weapon systems officer (WSO) in the rear seat is elevated higher than the pilot is.

Engines and Fuel

The Adder is powered by a pair of LDC-AE-76 non-afterburning, turbofan engines. These are highly fuel efficient and powerful, providing up to 6,000 pounds (26.69 kN) each for a combined total of 12,000 pounds (53.38 kN) of thrust. They are spaced apart from each other in separate wells to prevent damage from one interferring with the damage from the other. They can provide the Adder with the ability to perform high G maneuvers and not risk compressor stalls. The two engines give the Adder a thrust-to-weight ratio of 1.14:1 empty and 0.55:1 at maximum weight.

The Adder has the ability to refuel in midair and carries 3,975 pounds (1,803 kilograms) of fuel internally. Mounting two 300-gallon (1,135 liter) drop-tanks, the Adder can supplement its fuel load by 100%, giving it nearly double its combat range. Using strictly internal fuel, the Adder can fly 600 miles (966 km) and back.

The Adder does not have the capability for in-flight refueling.

Performance

The Adder is not a high-performance fighter. It cannot obtain supersonic speeds in level flight but can breach the sound barrier in a shallow dive. It can maneuver at -3G or +8Gs. The Adder has a maximum ceiling of 45,000 feet (13,716 m) and can fly as fast as 725 miles per hour or Mach 1.10 (1,167 kph) at altitude or 580 miles per hour (933 kph) or Mach 0.76 at sea level.

It has a takeoff run of 2,200 feet (671 m) and a landing distance of 1,250 feet (381 m). It is not equipped with a drag chute but it can be if needed by installing a pack to the left side of the tail.

Due to the construction techniques and some RCS-reducing methods, the Adder can be described as low-observable on radar but not to the degree of any stealth fighter or attacker.

Variants

The primary variant of the Adder is the F-54A, the two-seat production variant. The F-54A Adder is the main production model being offered and costs $35,000,000.00 each. The "A" variant does not feature the capability to carry and launch AIM-120 AMRAAM style, active-radar missiles or Harpoon/SLAM series missiles. The "B" variant of the F-54 is an export upgrade that allows anti-ship and active radar, anti-air capability with the substitution of the AN/APG-66 radar for the AN/APG-65 radar. The "B" variant costs $40,000,000.00 each.

Weapons

The Adder is equipped with a very capable weapons suit. It can carry both air to air and air to ground ordinance on eight external pylons, up to 7,000 pounds (3,175 kg) of ordinance in total. It's two innermost pylons are for air to ground ordinance only and each can hold up to 2,000 pounds (907 kg). The center pylons can carry up to 800 pounds (363 kg) of air to ground or air to air ordinance each. The outermost pylons can carry up to 500 pounds (227 kg) of either air to air or air to ground ordinance. Lastly, the two wingtip pylons can carry up to 200 pounds (91 kg) of air to air ordinance each or a light aviation pod.

The Adder also has an internal cannon. The M88A1 Advanced Rotary Cannon, originally designed with the RAH-66 Commanche program is a three-barrel, Gatling gun that fires 20x139 millimeter shells as fast as 1,040 meters per second, as far as 4,000 meters and at speeds ranging from 750, 1,500, 3,000, 4,500, or 6,000 rounds per minute. Normally loaded with 400 rounds, the Adder's pilot can select through these five firing rates, depending on the threat, with an effective range of 2,500 meters. The Adder carries 400 rounds for this weapon.

For air to air defense, the Adder can only mount light-weight infrared missiles. Despite the ability of the AN/APG-65 to operate active radar missiles such as the AIM-120 AMRAAM, the baseline production Adder is limited only to short-range, dogfight missiles. It can carry up to six AIM-9 Sidewinder or similar missiles on its two wingtip and outer four wing pylons. Upgrades allow the carriage of AIM-120 AMRAAM style missiles.

For air to ground ordinance, the Adder can carry many weapons. Mostly it will be loaded with iron bombs or unguided rockets but the Adder can carry and launch a variety of weapons including: laser or GPS guided bombs, Maverick missiles, the AGM-84 Harpoon or AGM-84 SLAM, the AGM-119 Penguin, or any other air to ground missile that can meet weight requirements. The Adder can also carry and launch anti-radiation missiles such as the Shrike or HARM and engage threat targets with ease.

Procurement Costs

F-54A Adder: $35,000,000.00
F-54B Adder: $40,000,000.00

Specifications

Status: In-service [A/B]
Role: Multirole Fighter
Crew: 2
Cost: $35,000,000.00 [A]; $40,000,000.00 ["B"]
Length: 40.00 ft.
Wingspan: 34.00 ft.
Height: 15.50 ft.
Empty Weight: 10,55.00 lb.
Fuel Weight: 3,975.00 lb.
Armament Weight: 7,000.00 lb.
Maximum Weight: 22,000.00 lb.
Powerplant: Two LDC-AE-76 non-afterburning turbofan engines
Maximum Military Thrust: 12,000.00 lb.
Thrust to Weight Ratio: 1.14:1 [empty]; 0.55:1 [max weight]
Maximum Speed @ S/L: 580 mph
Maximum Speed @ Altitude: 725 mph
Initial Climb Rate: 15,000 ft./min
Ceiling: 45,000.00 ft.
Combat Range: 600.00 mi
Ferry Range: 1,250.00 mi.
Take-Off Run: 2,200.00 ft.
Landing Run: 1,250.00 ft.
Drag Chute: No
G-Limits: -3 / +8
Gun: 1 M88A1 Advanced Rotary Cannon with 400 rounds
External Stations: 2 inner wing hardpoints rated at 2,000 lb. each, 2 center wing hardpoints rated at 800 lb. each, 2 outer wing hardpoints rated at 500 lb. each, 2 wingtip hardpoints for air to air missiles rated at 200 lb. each
Air-to-Air Stores: Up to 6 AIM-9 Sidewinder, AIM-204 Escape, or AIM-227 Viper missiles on wing and wingtip hardpoints
Air-to-Ground Stores: Can carry up to 6,600 lb. of air to ground ordinance on wing hardpoints
Other Stores: Up to 2 300-gallon fuel tanks on inner wing hardpoints
Avionics: AN/APG-66, FLIR [A]; AN/APG-65, FLIR ["B"]
ECM: AN/ALQ-165 ASPJ
Chaff Bundles: 60
Flares: 60
Radar Signature: Roughly 75% that of Yak-130

[Layarteb]

F-55 Shooting Star II

Overview

The history of the F-55 Shooting Star II dates back to the F-22 replacement program. Designed alongside the F-45 Scorpion, the F-55 Shooting Star II offered better range, performance, and weapons capabilities than the F-22 but was deemed inferior alongside the F-45 Scorpion. As such, the Shooting Star II was placed aside, only to be resurrected in early 2008. Seeking an all-weather, long-range interceptor, the Republic of Alaska (Brydog) was approached by the Layartebian Defense Corporation - Export Division. The F-55 Shooting Star II was offered with some changes to fit the Alaskan Air Force requirements.

Airframe

The Shooting Star II has an airframe similar to the F-22 but with noticeable differences. The wings are wider and larger to provide more area for even better lift than the F-22 had. In addition, there are two, small canards forward of the wings that provide lift and assist with agility. Original requirements called for a swing-wing fighter but such would have jeopardized the superior stealth advantage of the Shooting Star II.

The length of the fuselage is 64.00 feet (19.51 m) long and the main wingspan is 46.00 feet (14.02 m). The aircraft has a height of 16.75 feet (5.11 m) and has the same tail layout as the F-22 has. In addition, the canards have a span of 26.00 feet (7.92 m) and the total wing area is in excess of 950 ft² (88.26 m²).

The biggest change to the airframe of the Shooting Star II from its prototype days is the addition of strengthened undercarriage, allowing operation from rough, remote airfields.

Avionics

The Shooting Star II is equipped with an advanced and long-lasting avionics suite. Its primary system is the AN/APG-77(V)-2 AESA radar and it also carries the AN/AAQ-37 EOTS system, two systems used on the F-22 and F-35. Originally, the Shooting Star II was fitted with the same systems as the F-45 but these have not been cleared for export.

The AN/APG-77(V)-2 radar is a solid-state, active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, composed of 1,975 transmit\receive modules. Like its previous versions, the (V)-2 has a 120° field of view (60° left and 60° right. 60° up and 60° down) and the ability to conduct Synthetic Aperture and Inverse Synthetic Aperture radar processing. The (V)-2 is a direct development of the (V)-1, which added the full air-to-ground capability that the F-35's AN/APG-81 AESA radar had. The (V)-2 further refines that capability as well as provide a longer tracking and detection range over previous versions. It has a search range of approximately 250 miles (402 km) against bomber sized targets and 120 miles (193 km) against fighter sized targets.

The AN/AAQ-37 EOTS system is a slightly improved version of the EOTS used on the F-35 Lightning II. The EOTS used on the Shooting Star II carries the same three systems: CCD TV camera, laser designator, and forward looking infrared. These three systems allow the Shooting Star II to fly completely passively of emissions, even though the AESA radar is a low-probability of intercept (LPI) system. The CCD TV camera of the EOTS allows the pilot of the Shooting Star II to positively identify both aerial and ground targets before engaging, providing a safer environment for friendly forces. At higher altitudes, with a further horizon, the CCD TV camera can provide accurate targeting for standoff weapons. The laser designator allows for range finding and can be used in both air-to-air and air-to-ground engagements. Against ground targets, it can be used above 40,000 ft. (12,192 meters). The FLIR system acts as two separate devices, depending on the engagement. In air-to-air engagements, it functions as a powerful IRST and, in air-to-ground engagements it is an imaging infrared sensor. This allows the Shooting Star II to fly completely "noses cold," reducing its interception range.

The self-defense system of the Shooting Star II is unique as well. It revolves around the AN/ALQ-214 IDECM, advanced electronic countermeasures system. Able to jam an array of systems, ranging from radars to communications, the IDECM also integrates various missile warning sensors and the radar warning receiver of the aircraft, to provide the pilot(s) with minimal visual stimuli, allowing for less stress. In addition, the Shooting Star II is equipped with 120 chaff bundles and 60 flares.

Cockpit

The cockpit of the Shooting Star II is very advanced. It takes much of its layout from the F-22 and F/A-18 Super Hornet. The single-seat variant of the Shooting Star II is very similar to the F-22 whereas the twin-seat variant is similar to the twin-seat Super Hornet. The cockpit is completely heated and air conditioned and the canopy is tinted with gold, to reduce its radar signature, as first observed with the F-16 Falcon. The cockpit is designed around the pilot and lessons learned from previous fifth generation aircraft have created a cockpit that is entirely pilot-friendly.

Engines and Fuel

The Shooting Star II is powered by two turbofan engines, both providing afterburners and thrust vectoring. The LDC-AE-78A engines that power the Shooting Star II are fed by twin air-intakes that shield the fan blades from radar. Each engine puts out 22,500 pounds (100.09 kN) of thrust in military setting and 36,000 pounds (160.14 kN) of thrust at full afterburner, slightly more than the F-22. When the Shooting Star II is empty, the thrust-to-weight ratio is slightly over 2:1 and, at maximum weight, it is 0.8:1. At normal combat weight, the Shooting Star II has a thrust-to-weight ratio of around 1.07:1.

The Shooting Star II carries 29,400 lb. (13,335 kg) of fuel in the single-seat variant and 28,200 lb. (12,791 kg) of fuel in the twin-seat variant. The combat radius of the Shooting Star II is limited to 1,450 miles (2,334 km) and the ferry range is 4,100 miles (6,598 km).

Performance

The Shooting Star II is a very high performance fighter. Built with the lessons learned on the F-22, it exhibits even more amazing performance figures. At maximum thrust and, at an altitude of 36,000 feet or higher, the Shooting Star II is literally a shooting star. Its maximum speed is 1,749 mph (2,815 kph) or Mach 2.65. It is rumored to be able to achieve Mach 2.75 in clean, lightened conditions. At sea-level, the aircraft can fly as fast as 950 mph (1,529 kph) or Mach 1.25.

Speed isn't its only capability. Climbing at a speed of 65,000 feet per minute (330 m/s), the Shooting Star II can zoom climb to 85,000 feet (25,908 m) and operate at an altitude of 75,000 feet (22,860 m). In addition to this impressive ability, the Shooting Star II has a takeoff run of just 950 feet (290 m) and a landing distance of 3,950 (1,204 m) without the aide of a drag chute. The Shooting Star II is also rated for -4G and +10.5G maneuvers, although pilot limitations can inhibit full performance.

Lastly, the Shooting Star II is designed in the wake of the fifth generation series of fighters. As such, its stealth capabilities are more refined and it has a radar signature approximately 25% less than that of the F-22. In addition, the skin of the aircraft as well as the stealth paint used allow for limited defense against over-the-horizon style radars.

Variants

The Shooting Star II is offered in four variants in two blocks. The "A" and "B" variants are single and twin-seat models, respectively, without air-to-ground capabilities. Each cost $110,000,000.00 per unit. The "C" and "D" variants are single and twin-seat models, respectively, with added air-to-ground capabilities and cost $120,000,000.00 per unit.

Weapons

The Shooting Star II is a fighter first. Its weapons load is optimized for air-to-air engagements but a block upgrade can easily provide it with air-to-ground capabilities. The Shooting Star II is equipped, primarily, with four internal bays, two ventral and two side. It can also fit six external pylons. In the "A" and "B" versions none of these stations can mount air-to-ground weapons. The "C" and "D" versions allow for air-to-ground weapons capabilities.

The Shooting Star II is also equipped with a GAU-12/U Equalizer Gatling gun. The GAU-12/U is a fire-barrel Gatling gun and it fires a potent and deadly 25mm shell. Originally, the Shooting Star II was equipped with the M304A1 Impulse Revolver Cannon, a 25mm weapon. The GAU-12/U is fed by 800 rounds of ammunition, featured in a drum behind the cockpit.

The internal weapons bays of the Shooting Star II are very similar to those of the F-22 except they are slightly larger and have more capacity. The two ventral bays are rated up to 2,400 pounds (1,088 kg) each and can be fitted with as many as four pylons per bay, each rated at 600 pounds (272 kg). This allows for a full complement of eight beyond-visual-range missiles or four to six long-range missiles. For the "C" and "D" variants, the ventral bays can carry up to four air-to-ground stores each, such as the JDAM, AARGM, Brimstone, Maverick, and JSOW, depending on the size and weight of the munition. The two side bays are strictly for air-to-air munitions only and can each mount a pair of dogfight missiles. Each side bay is rated up to 600 pounds (272 kg) though a pair of short-range missiles will often weigh under 400 pounds (181 kg). If the missile has large forward canards, the side bay is limited to only one missile per bay due to space.

The external pylons of the Shooting Star II are a mix of those on the F-22 and F-35. There are six pylons in total. The inner four pylons can carry up to 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg) each and the outer two pylons are limited to 300 pounds (136 kg) each. The inner four pylons are limited to only air-to-ground munitions, external drop tanks, or sensor pods. In the "A" and "B" version, they can only carry external drop tanks or sensor pods. The outer two pylons are for air-to-air missiles only and can carry only light, short-range missiles, such as the Sidewinder. These same missiles would be featured in the side bays of the Shooting Star II. Though these external pylons compromise stealth, the addition of four external, 600-gallon drop tanks can add 15,840 pounds (7,185 kg) of fuel, giving excellent ferry range capabilities.

Procurement Costs

F-55A Shooting Star II: $110,000,000.00
F-55B Shooting Star II: $110,000,000.00
F-55C Shooting Star II: $120,000,000.00
F-55D Shooting Star II: $120,000,000.00

Specifications

Status: Never entered service [A/B/C/D]
Role: Interceptor [A/B]; Multirole Fighter [C/D]
Crew: 1 [A/C]; 2 [B/D]
Cost: $110,000,000.00 [A/B]; $120,000,000.00 [C/D]
Length: 64.00 ft.
Wingspan: 46.00 ft.
Height: 16.75 ft.
Empty Weight: 34,000.00 lb. [A/C]; 34,850.00 lb. [B/D]
Maximum Weight: 90,000.00 lb.
Fuel Weight: 29,400.00 lb. [A/C]; 28,200.00 lb. [B/D]
Armament Weight: 26,600.00 lb.
Powerplant: Two LDC-AE-78A afterburning turbofan engines
Maximum Thrust: 72,000.00 lb.
Maximum Speed @ S/L: 950 mph
Maximum Speed @ Altitude: 1,749 mph
Initial Climb Rate: 65,000.00 ft./min
Service Ceiling: 75,000.00 ft.
Combat Range: 1,450.00 mi
Ferry Range: 4,100.00 mi
G-Limits: -4 / +10.5
Gun: 1 GAU-12/U Equalizer with 800 rounds
Stations: 2 side bays rated at 600 lb. each for air-to-air munitions only, 2 ventral bays rated at 2,400 lb. each for air-to-air or air-to-ground munitions, 4 external wing pylons rated at 5,000 lb. each for air to ground ordinance only, and 2 external wing pylons rated at 300 lb. each for air-to-air munitions only
Air-to-Air Armament: Standard loadout is 4 AIM-9 Sidewinder, AIM-132 ASRAAM, or IRIS-T missiles internally in side bays and up to 8 AIM-120 AMRAAM or Meteor BVRAAM missiles internally in ventral bays, additionally up to 2 AIM-9 Sidewinder, AIM-132 ASRAAM, or IRIS-T missiles externally on outermost pylons
Air-to-Ground Armament: Up to 4 stores weighing under 600 lb., 3 stores weighing under 800 lb., 2 stores weighing under 1,2000 lb., or 1 store weighing under 2,400 lb. per ventral bay and up to 20,000 lb. of ordinance externally on inner 4 wing pylon
Avionics: AN/APG-77 AESA, AN/AAQ-37 EOTS
ECM: AN/ALQ-214 IDECM; 120 chaff bundles, 60 flares
Radar Signature: 25% less than F-22 Raptor

[Layarteb]

F-58 Viper

Overview

The F-58 Viper was first envisioned in 2006 when the Imperial Layartebian Military sought a replacement for its F-51 Demon and F-52 Saber fighters in service with the Air Force and Defense Forces. Inexpensive, both fighters were multirole aircraft capable of fighting its way to the target, destroying it, and fighting its way back home, just like the F-16 Fighting Falcon could first do in the 1970s and 1980s. Additionally, both aircraft were considered upper 4.5 generation and remained a lethal threat to enemies all around the globe but their survivability was not as high as some of the newer, 6th and 7th generation aircraft in service already in the name of the Wraith and other multirole, high-tech, advanced aircraft like the Savage. While 4.5 generation fighters such as the Typhoon would continue to remain in service, neither the Demon nor Saber was expected to last very long. The latter were built by the Cottish Realm and thus did not offer the degree of survivability that the Empire sought nor were they as versatile, being single-engined fighters. Thus, the decision to replace these two airframes, retiring them to the bone yard for storage, was eventually made and the Viper was brought off the drawing board and a prototype was first available in early 2007. In early 2009, the first examples were delivered to the Imperial Layartebian Air Force, where one hundred and forty-four F-51s and F-52s would be replaced. The ILDF received theirs as well, which would replace one thousand, two hundred, and forty-eight F-51s.

Airframe

The airframe of the Viper is built on many similarities to the Raptor, Lightning II, Savage, and Typhoon, as well as the Wraith. The airframe's frontal section is almost identical to that of the Raptor with a bubble canopy, covered in gold film to reduce radar returns and a forward nose to accommodate an AESA radar and subsequent IR/LASER/EO tracking system. From there, the aircraft maintains a pair of canards and a pair of large wings that do not form a perfect delta but offer a wide amount of wing area. The tails are oriented like they are on the F-22, progressively moving outwards where a pair of turbofan engines rests in between them both.

The underside of the aircraft is otherwise similar to that of the Raptor and Wraith but the aircraft maintains on a single centerline weapons bay rather than a center and side bays, like both the Raptor and the Wraith or the Lightning II, which has only side bays. The entire airframe is made of composites and every possible angle is built to ensure that the aircraft sheds radar rays rather than return them. Its radar cross section is similar to that of the Lightning II when not carrying external ordinance.

The aircraft is 64.00 ft. (19.51 m) long and is 16.50 ft. (5.03 m) tall. Its wingspan is 42.00 ft. (12.80 m) and this gives the aircraft more wing area than that of the F-35C Lightning II allowing for generous amounts of lift for excellent low-speed handling. Empty, the aircraft weighs 39,200 pounds (17,781 kg) and its maximum takeoff weight is 85,000 pounds (38,555 kg).

Avionics

The standard avionics suite of the Viper is highly advanced and is built from proven technologies and proven systems. Its main method of detection is the AN/APG-90(V)-2 AMAR radar, which is an LPI-AESA radar with a 120° field of view. The (V)-2 variant was originally developed to equip the F/A-77 Kovas. It was developed from the highly sophisticated AN/APG-90(V)-1 AMAR, which represents the base of the AMAR series of radars, which includes 10 variants. The (V)-2 was originally slightly less capable than the (V)-1 because it did not include many of the datalinking elements necessary in the (V)-1 to adapt the radar into the Layartebian Air Defense Network, thus reducing the overall cost. Because the contract was lost and the AMAR did not equip with the Kovas, the (V)-2 was subsequently retained in the designation sequence and all (V)-2s added to the Viper include the same functions as the (V)-1. It remains 5% less capable, in overall range and detection, than the (V)-2.

Additionally, the AN/AAQ-40(V)-1 AMAS equips the Viper. The AMAS is essentially a modernized EOTS system, which first saw usage in the F-35 Lightning II. It features three powerful, non-active sensors: EO, IR, and laser. The AMAS allows the Viper to engage targets without using its radar, which, even though it is an LPI system, still gives off emissions and can be detected at short ranges.

Lastly, the Viper is equipped with the AN/ALQ-240(V)-2 MEJS, a self-defense suite that includes an array of electronics countermeasures and detection systems, all integrated together. The MEJS is a development of many systems previously offered, especially those on the Typhoon fighter. The main difference between the (V)-1 and (V)-2, is the latter lacks an infrared jamming system but can defeat IR based weapons using flares.

Export variants of the Viper swap these three systems for less-capable but still highly sophisticated systems. The radar is the AN/APG-80(V)-1, in use with the F-16 Block 60 Fighting Falcon. The AMAS is replaced with a fuselage mounted Sniper XR pod that does not contribute very negatively against the RCS of the aircraft. The ECM system is the AN/ALQ-214 IDECM first used on the F/A-18 Super Hornet.

Cockpit

The Viper has a very advanced cockpit, which provides a great deal of ease. Lessons learned from the Raptor showed that a single pilot has a tremendous work load and the easier things are, the more effective he can be in combat. The Viper features a glass cockpit that is highly digitalized. The cockpit features four MFDs, three in line with one between the legs. These can all be used to display information about the aircraft, its weapons, and its sensors. Just under the HUD is a small TV screen, which relays data from either the Sniper XR pod or AMAS. The throttle is to the left and the stick is to the right. Switches, dials, buttons, and everything else within the cockpit is night vision capable and can go to high illumination if necessary. The displays features a single RWR-type display, which combines both RWR and LWR sensors into one readout. All MFDs are touch-screens, which allows the pilot to simply touch and call up commands, though buttons are provided along them for even further abilities.

The pilot sits in cramped quarters but not uncomfortable. Sitting on a zero-zero ejection seat, which is angled to allow for better tolerance of high G-forces. The cockpit is both air conditioned and heated, which allows the pilot to sit highly comfortable, even in the most unpleasant environments. The glass of the canopy, which is gold plated to reduce radar signature, also reduces glare. The cockpit also reduces on external sounds to help alleviate some of the sensory data that the pilot will receive. The Viper is significantly easier to fly with one pilot than any two pilot aircraft because of the way it is laid out.

Engines and Fuel

The Viper is powered by a pair of engines that are derivatives of those featured on the Lightning II and Raptor. The pair of LDC-AE-82A engines represent the newest afterburning, thrust-vectoring, turbofan engines on the market from the LDC. Each one is capable of up to 21,000 pounds (93.41 kN) of force at maximum military power and up to 34,500 pounds (153.46 kN) at maximum afterburning power. There are four afterburning stages to provide for varying degrees of power required for combat, takeoff, and maneuvers. Empty, the Viper has a thrust-to-weight ratio of 1.76:1 and at maximum weight this is reduced to 0.81:1.

The Viper carries a total of 25,000 pounds (11,340 kg) of fuel internally. It can mount up to two 600 gallon (2,271 l) fuel tanks, giving an additional 7,920 pounds (3,592 kg) of fuel. Its normal combat range is 625 mi (1,006 km) but its ferry range is an astonishing 2,500 mi (4,023 km).

Thrust vectoring for the LDC-AE-82A engines not only provide the Viper with simple pitch control, as seen on most aircraft, but also with yaw control. The vectoring can nozzle exhaust ±35° for both yaw and pitch. The Viper was known for quick, snap-like maneuvers in testing, which enabled it to reach maximum G-forces in a fraction of the time it would take conventional aircraft. In addition, because of these quick snaps, the Viper would not need to sustain high-G maneuvers, therefore bleeding off airspeed. Airspeed loss was considered marginal compared to conventional fighters, allowing the pilot more speed to defeat the enemy.

The engines of the Viper also provide stealth in the way of sound. From the front, the engines produce a very high-pitched, low whine and from the rear, a low, deep rumble. Sound sensors will have definite trouble locating the Viper and picking up its noise signature as well as the human ear, which could be a problem at low-level and inside canyons, valleys, and other enclosed spaces.

Performance

Despite being a multirole fighter, the Viper is a performance aircraft. It is built to excel in air-to-air and air-to-ground combat while being capable of flying to the very edge of its flight envelope. At maximum thrust and sea level, the top speed of the aircraft is 950 mph (1,529 kph) or Mach 1.25. At altitude this is 1,750 mph (2,816 kph) or Mach 2.65. Speed isn't its only advance either. The other is ceiling. The Viper has a normal operating ceiling of 65,000 ft. (19,812 m) but can zoom climb to 92,500 ft. (28,194 m) in a specialized condition at ascent rates as fast as 55,000 ft./min (279.4 m/s).

Additionally, thanks to the generous amounts of lift created by the wings, the aircraft can be in the air in as little as 1,050 ft. (320 m) and land within 2,400 ft. (732 m) without the aide of a landing chute at normal approach speeds. Its maximum maneuvering range is between -4Gs and +9Gs but the aircraft can pull +10.5Gs without damaging the airframe. A G-limiter in the aircraft can be reset to provide this maximum amount but any maneuvers higher than this risks serious and catastrophic damage to the airframe.

Weapons

The Viper has a total of 9 external stations and 1 internal bay for carrying up to 20,800 lb. (9,435 kg) of ordinance. It is also equipped with an internal gun on its port side fuselage, forward of the air intakes as seen in most Layartebian fighters.

The Viper's main cannon armament is the M304A2 Impulse Revolver Cannon and its magazine holds 300 27x151mm rounds. Export variants can carry either an M302A1 Mauser (BK27) with 300 27x145mm rounds or a single GAU-13/A Avenger 4-barrel Gatling gun with 150 30x173mm rounds.

Its internal bay can carry up to 5,000 lb. (2,268 kg) of ordinance ranging from air-to-air missiles to air-to-ground missiles and bombs. The bay is 240 in (6.10 m) long, 48 in (1.22 m) wide, and 24 in (0.61 m) deep. This allows for up to 6 AIM-120 AMRAAM style missiles and 2 AIM-9 Sidewinder style missiles or various combinations of the two and other missiles fitting these dimensions.

Externally, the Viper's hardpoints are all on the wings except for a single, forward, fuselage mount for sensor or ECM pods. This hardpoint is rated to only 800 lb. (363 kg) and on the export variant is the default location for the Sniper XR pod. On the wings, the Viper has eight hardpoints, arranged in four pairs with differing maximum weights. The inner pair are rated to 4,000 lb. (1,814 kg) each and can mount drop tanks and pods in addition to air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions. The next pair are rated to 2,000 lb. (907 kg) each and cannot carry drop tanks. The third pair are rated to 1,000 lb. (454 kg) each and carries the same types of weaponry as the second. The fourth and final pair, mounted underneath the wing ends but not on the wingtips are rated to 500 lb. (227 kg) each and are for air-to-air munitions and light sensor or ECM pods only.

Variants

The main variant is the F-58A Viper, which is the main Layartebian production model. It costs $80,000,000.00 and comes fully equipped with all features listed. The export variant is the F-58B Viper and costs slightly less at $75,000,000.00 with the option of either the 27mm or 30mm gun. It could, theorhetically, mount a 20mm or 25mm gun with up to 590 or 265 rounds, respectively.

Procurement

The F-58B Viper is the exportable variant and it costs $75,000,000.00 per unit. It can carry either a 27mm cannon with 300 rounds, a 30mm cannon with 150 rounds, a 20mm cannon with 590 rounds, or a 25mm cannon with 265 rounds.

[Layarteb]

M2061 Reaver

Overview

In early 2000, the Imperial Layartebian Military began a program of replacing most of its logistics and light infantry vehicles from front-line service. This resulted in existing Dingo APVs and Bushmaster IMVs being transferred from the army to the defense forces, subsequently ending their use of the HMMWV. Aside from these light infantry vehicles, other vehicles such as the HEMTT, HET, and Universal Carrier were reaching their own time for replacement. Heavy use throughout the Conquests as well as battle damage left many of these vehicles in a condition that required regular maintenance. The army sought to develop a single vehicle replacement for all three systems. The requirements were for a vehicle roughly the same size as the HEMTT and armored to provide protection against most basic level threats. The vehicle was to have a modular design system that could allow it to change its mission to fulfill all of these roles. What was produced was the M2061 Reaver, a truck that was highly modular and capable.

The Reaver was designed from the Doomani Neco MLRS system, which was a 6x6 truck with a 140mm rocket system. The Reaver itself was enlarged and modernized but essentially used the same chassis design. The final product was an 8x8 truck with the ability to act as many things and excelling at them as well. The Reaver was a jack of all trades and unlike the saying, a master of all of them as well. The Reaver was initially tested in early 2003 in a variety of terrains and conditions ranging from hot and humid jungles to arid deserts to rocky and uneven mountain passes to Arctic conditions. In each area, the Reaver exceeded minimum requirements and by the end of 2003, after eleven months of intensive testing, the Reaver entered low-rate initial production (LRIP) reaching IOC in February 2004. Full production began in early 2005 and by 2008, the army had replaced every HEMTT, HET, and Universal Carrier in service. Additionally, the Reaver gave way to the Scythe MLRS system, which would replace the Boar and Lyras-built Viper system in their entirety. The Scythe would supplement the Devastator as the Empire's rocket artillery.

Design & Accommodations

General Description
The Reaver is a rather simplistic design. Built from the Neco chassis, the Reaver is a tried and true design at its very core. The vehicle is designed to be completely modular and accept a host of modules to its structure allowing it to take on many roles ranging from that of a cargo carrier to a mobile ambulance. Modularity is what makes the Reaver such a success and a hit with the Layartebian military.

The basic design of the Reaver features a large, comfortable, high cab in the front with a large flat-bed area behind it, which can accept a variety of modules. Overall, the Reaver is 369.00 inches (937.26 cm) in length and 102.00 inches (259.08 cm) in width. From the ground to the top of its exhaust stack, the Reaver is 117.00 inches (297.18 cm) tall. Subsequent modules may increase the overall length and height of the vehicle; although, the former is not as common. It sits atop eight large wheels with a diameter of 44.00 inches (111.76 cm) overall and a rim diameter of 24.00 inches (60.96 cm). The rear of the flatbed is sloped downward but this can be altered to fit the applicable module. A pair of hard-cased bumpers filled with super-dense foam protect the front and rear of the chassis. The distance from the ground to the top of the flatbed is 59.50 inches (151.13 cm). The ground clearance of the vehicle is 17.50 inches (44.45 cm). The Reaver's curb weight is 22.00 tons (19,958.06 kg).

The cabin of the Reaver is as wide as the vehicle. It's inside dimensions are 120.00 inches (304.80 cm) long, 58.00 inches (147.32 cm) high, and 98.00 (248.92 cm) inches wide for a total volume of 394.72 ft³ (11.18 m³). Quite spacious, the entire cabin is armored (see Protection). The cabin of the Reaver is made to sit five soldiers arranged with two facing forward (driver and commander) and, behind them, facing the rear of the vehicle, three, fully-equipped soldiers. Modules can provide for additional seating outside of the cabin.

The cabin of the Reaver, as well as any modules for human habitation, is entirely NBC protected. The system is based on that of the M1A2 Abrams, which uses an overpressure system and a series of filters to keep hazardous air out of the cabin. Crew members can operate in an NBC environment inside of their vehicles without the necessity for an NBC suit; although, one is highly recommended, should a catastrophic failure occur to this system. Sensors on the exterior of the vehicle monitor the air for hazards and should a hazard be detected, an alarm will sound in the cabin and all doors were automatically lock. This lock can be overridden by the commander of the vehicle or the driver. This is designed to prevent a soldier in the rear of the vehicle from exiting should panic overcome their judgement.

Aside from being NBC protected, the cabin is also climate controlled by a 3,000 BTU heater and air-conditioning system that is entirely electrically powered, giving instant hot or cold air. The climate control system of the Reaver is adaptive to the external conditions, which are determined through a series of sensors. These sensors can detect humidity, temperature, and pressure. Through these variables, the Reaver's climate control system can adjust the internal temperature of the vehicle to be the most comfortable. Settings can also be placed on manual.

Additional features inside of the cabin of the Reaver include the ability to carry 30.00 gallons (113.56 liters) of fresh water or other drinkable liquid in a container system built into the rear seats. Additionally, there are containers and racks for carrying a variety of items such as backpacks, medical supplies, tools, weapons, and ammunition. However, fully loaded, the interior of a Reaver can become quite cramped.

The rear of the vehicle provides for and area of up to 192.00 inches (487.68 cm) in length by 102.00 inches (259.08 cm) in width. This gives a total area of 136.00 ft² (17.84 m²). The maximum cargo load for the Reaver is limited to 30.00 tons (27,215.54 kg) on the vehicle itself giving a maximum weight of 62.00 tons (56,245.45 kg).

Front Seats
The driver has the most amount of comfort in the entire vehicle. He sits in the left side of the vehicle on an adjustable, well-padded seat. Visibility is provided by a pair of armored, frontal windows that can accept a slat armor system, reducing visibility but providing significant protection to the driver. The windshield, although thickened to provide resistance against bullets and shrapnel is the weakest part of the vehicle. On the driver's door is an armored window that allows him to see a side-view mirror, which is fully adjustable from his seat. There is another side-view mirror on the commander's site, which is also fully adjustable from the driver's seat.

The driver's controls are fully digital. Immediately in front of him is the steering wheel and behind it are the basic panels that he would need, which include speed, fuel status, engine temperature, RPM, and even an odometer. Sitting on top of the dashboard is a small compass. Because the Reaver has a manual transmission, a pair of paddles are included on the steering wheel to allow the driver to shift up or down accordingly or put the vehicle in neutral. The driver never needs to remove his hands from the steering wheel to shift, giving him a better grasp on the vehicle in all situations. To his immediate right is a pair of electronic MFDs like those inside of a fighter jet. Because the center console is raised to provide for electronics hardware, these MFDs are easily accessible and viewable to both the driver and the commander. Each MFD can display a variety of modes, which include: GPS navigation, external conditions, brake temperatures and tire pressure, module status, climate status, and a host of vehicle variables ranging from weight to load pressure. Each MFD has a diameter of 7.87 inches (200.00 mm). Also built into the center console is the radio of the vehicle. Headsets allow all five passengers connectivity with the radio.

The commander sits on the other side of the center console with his own set of controls. As the commander of the vehicle, he has access to all of the information that the driver has but only through additional MFDs that are 5.91 inches (150.00 mm) in diameter. He has six of them in total arranged in two rows of three. Additionally, he has the responsibility of being the weapon's launcher if an offensive module such as the MLRS is fitted. In such a case, the commander also has access to a single launch and control panel, which is built into the center console that is a touch-screen system. In non-offensive vehicles, his panel is used to provide a large navigation plot that is coupled to the GPS of the vehicle. The screen can be split into four subsections to allow for a maximum amount of data to be visible to the commander, which includes the navigation, orders, weapon's status, and so on and so fourth. Like the driver, he sits on a fully adjustable seat.

Rear Seats
The rear seats are arranged back-to-back with the front seats and there are three of them. They are padded but they are not adjustable. There are no windows in the rear of the cabin, only the four door windows and the two windows between the two sets of doors. The rear part of the cabin is spacious but can become quickly cramped with gear and supplies. The seats can be folded upwards to provide for a larger storage area if necessary.

The center seat in vehicles equipped with a remote weapon's station becomes the gunners seat. In these vehicles, the weapon control station is placed in front of the middle seat. The soldier sitting in this seat can go out either door but, while he is seated, those next to him cannot go out any other door but their own unless he moves. In these versions, the rear area is not as spacious and storage space is reduced significantly. Like the digitalized electronics for the driver, the gunner has the same options. He can use the remote station on top of the roof in complete safety without being vulnerable to enemy snipers or fire, allowing him to be a more effective gunner.

Electronics

The Reaver is equipped with a wide array of electronics. Aside from its variety of sensors, the most important is the GPS navigation system, which can be as accurate as the GPS network allows. This navigation system is military-quality and allows for better accuracy and information than a civilian system. However, should this malfunction, the GPS system is compatible with civilian receivers. Additional electronics for the Reaver include a satellite uplink system, which allows the commander and driver of the Reaver to view live-footage from satellites and connect with the remainder of the Layartebian defense network through encrypted means.

The Reaver comes equipped with few other electronics at a standard configuration. The Reaver is equipped with IFF IR strobes on its roof, which can be activated from the driver inside. It also comes equipped with an optical sighting system that is nothing more than a powerful telescope system mounted to the roof of the vehicle. It maintains a low profile and has a full 360° traversable field of view and an elevation range between -10° and +60° allowing for a very wide field of view. The optical system is equipped with a night vision system that allows for low-light visibility. The optical system combines conventional and digital zooming capabilities allowing it for up to 20x normal zoom or 520mm and up to 4,160mm with an 8x digital zoom. This allows the driver and commander the ability to identify threats and hazards from very long range. This system can also include a FLIR but requires an additional module to be added.

As a creature comfort, the Reaver is also equipped with an AM/FM radio with an integrated hard-disk capable of storing up to 160GB of audio files as well as a single-disc CD player. Speakers are placed in the front and rear of the vehicle and all five crew stations has access to the settings of this radio; however, the driver and commander can override any setting placed.

Performance, Powerplant, and Propulsion

Though the Reaver is built on the chassis of the Neco, its engine is entirely unique. Unlike the Neco, the Reaver is an 8x8 system that uses a powerful engine and a manual transmission to provide the best performance.

The powerplant of the Reaver is an LDC-VE-26 engine. It is a 4-stroke diesel engine that can also run on bio-diesel fuel or be equipped to accept hydrogen fuel as well. It is an in-line 6-cylinder engine with a total displacement of 10.3 liters and a compression ratio of 16:1. The maximum output of the engine is 550 hp (410 kW) at 2100 rpm. The engine provides the Reaver with up to 2,000 foot-pounds (8,896 Nm) of torque at 1,500 rpm. The engine itself has a dry weight of 3,000.00 pounds (1,360.78 kg). The LDC-VE-26 is liquid cooled and the Reaver has a total coolant capacity of 5.15 gallons (19.50 liters). The thermostat of the Reaver is set to open at 194°F (90°C) and the maximum temperature the coolant can reach is 239°F (115°C). The coolant also provides additional heating to the vehicle. The LDC-VE-26 has a maximum capacity of 7.93 gallons (30.00 liters) of lubricating oil, which can reach a maximum temperature of 230°F (110°C) and sustain a minimum pressure of 21.75 psi (150.00 kPa). The engine requires up to 1,918.76 yd³ (1,467.00 m³) air per hour at maximum conditions and its exhaust system can handle a maximum output of 3,961.70 lb. (1,797.00 kg) of exhaust per hour. The maximum temperature of the exhaust air can reach up to 1,040°F (560°C). The exhaust output for the Reaver is located to the rear of the cabin, mounted upwards to allow for deep fording. The air intake of the vehicle is mounted in the front of the vehicle behind armored slats and a snorkeling system can be installed on the roof of the vehicle allowing for fording depths of up to 85.50 inches (2.17 m). Unprepared, the vehicle can only ford up to 48.00 inches (1.22 m).

The Reaver's transmission is a manual 5-speed with 1 gear for reverse and its tires are all run-flat wheels with a hard-base to resist puncturing. A spare tire is often carried to repair a flat, should one occur. The driver has the ability to alter the pressure of each tire accordingly through manual or automatic means to properly balance a load. The second pair of tires are not operable by the actual engine and transmission and have the ability of being raised up to 4.00 inches (10.16 cm) off the ground when carrying light loads to reduce drag and friction, allowing for better efficiency.

The fuel system of the Reaver is contained in two steel tanks that are afforded armor plating to resist small-arms fire and shrapnel. Each tank is equal in capacity. The Reaver's fuel system has a total capacity of 150.00 gallons (567.82 liters) and its engine efficiency is approximately 3.07 mpg (1.30 km/l) for a total range of 460.00 miles (740.30 km). This efficiency is the absolute average and can differ upwards or downwards depending on weight, fuel, and conditions. The maximum on-road speed of the Reaver is 55 mph (88 kph); although this is likely to be governed to 40 mph (64 kph) or less depending on the service. Its maximum off-road speed is limited to 40 mph (64 kph) and the vehicle can ascend a gradient of up to 30° or traverse a 17° side-slop without rolling.

The braking system of the Reaver comes standard with compressed air, massive disc, anti-lock brakes on all eight wheels. Additionally, the vehicle is fitted with an exhaust brake to provide additional stopping power to the vehicle, especially at maximum weight and downhill. This provides the engine braking system with additional effectiveness and helps to cut down on the noise produced by engine braking, a common complaint as experienced on tractor trailers and other big rigs. For the Tractor Module, the Reaver can fit larger and more powerful braking systems to counter the additional weight carried, especially when fitted in the HET role.

The Reaver can be equipped with a forward winch that could allow it to pull a disabled vehicle out of a ditch. The winch would have a total weight capacity though of only 10,000.00 pounds (4,535.92 kg). A winch placed in the rear of the vehicle could pull up to 25,000.00 pounds (11,339.81 kg). Neither of these are fitted as standard though. The Reaver can also accommodate a variety of plows or other items in its front section.

Protection

The Reaver's whole cabin is armored as well as its exposed vital areas. The basic level of protection afforded to the cabin of the Reaver is STANAG 4569 Level III, which provides protection against bullets up to 7.62x51mm at ranges of 30 meters or more. The windows of the vehicle are protected to Level II, affording protecting against 7.62x39mm bullets at 30 meters or more. The fuel tanks of the Reaver are also protected to Level II. The underside hull of the Reaver is give a V-shape, which is meant to deflect the blast of a landmine or IED away from the vehicle, protecting, above all else, the occupants inside. While this hull will not make the vehicle mine-proof, it guarantees that the occupants inside have a much greater chance of survivability, even if the vehicle is completely destroyed and inoperable. The basic level of protection to the Reaver is meant to provide the vehicle with high survivability in areas that are not "front-line." Against insurgent attacks behind the front-lines, the Reaver stands a strong chance of survival.

The Reaver can also accept a number of armor add-on kits, which include window shutters, add-on panels, and other components that can boost the protection levels of the vehicle. Shutters for the windows can boost the protection to somewhere between Level III and IV, affording protection against rounds larger than 7.62x51mm but not as large as 12.7x99mm or 14.5x114mm. Ceramic containers for the exposed areas of the fuel tanks can allow for Level IV protection. Additionally, add-on panel kits can boost protection for the cabin to Level IV or even Level V with certain applications; albeit, the latter being very heavy. The Reaver can also be equipped with Non-Explosive Reactive Armor blocks (NERA). It can mount ERA blocks but it is not recommended due to the nature of the vehicle. An add-on slat armor kit can be added to protect the entire vehicle from the middle point of its wheels up to its roof at a considerable weight gain.

Additional protection can also come in the way of active defensive systems. The Reaver can mount the AN/VLQ-30 Vehicular Integrated Defensive Suite (VIDS). The VIDS was first made for the Sabertooth main battle tank and has evolved to a modular system with variants for all types of vehicles. The AN/VLQ-30H would be most fitting for the Reaver. Combat versions with an MLRS or SAM launcher would mount the AN/VLQ-30F variant, which has a focus more on offensive action considering their very different role.

The VIDS is a system that uses multiple jamming modules linked together and controlled from inside of the vehicle. The first module is a jamming module that is very similar to those used on helicopters and it fulfills an infrared jamming role. Compact and small, it has a short-range and is primarily tuned to work against anti-tank missiles that rely on infrared guidance, the Maverick being the most common. Additionally, this module operates a laser jamming system as well as an RF jammer, the range being just as limited but focused to the anti-tank threat. Powered by the engine of the vehicle, the VIDS has a maximum range of 4.00 miles (6,437.37 m) with a refresh rate of 100 milliseconds. The Reaver can also mount an Active Protection System module for the VIDS, which enhances the jamming capabilities. It uses a millimetric wave, Doppler radar to detect incoming projectiles. It has a detection range of up to 164.00 feet (50.00 m) and can engage targets moving as slow as 111 mph (50 m/s) or as fast as 2,625 fps (800 m/s). It is optimized to have a very small kill zone, making it safe for infantry men standing next to the tank and for reduced collateral damage, which exists in urban environments. Once the threat is detected the internal computer uses the signal from the incoming weapon and calculates an approach vector. Once the incoming weapon is fully classified, the computers calculate the optimal time and angle to fire the neutralizers. The response comes from two launchers installed on the vehicle, one on each side. The launchers have a pivoting/rotating ability and thus are able to fire in any direction the computer requires. Then it fires neutralizing agents of small metal pellets, similar to shotgun shot towards the target. The system has an automatic reloading mechanism that can handle multiple attacks, and can simultaneously engage several threats, even while the armored vehicle is on the move. It can react in just 0.05 seconds and it takes between 0.1 and 0.25 seconds to effective neutralize a threat. The system, in total, carries up to 24 shots. The VIDS for the Reaver can also mount a microwave emitter for neutralizing incoming projectiles. This is not a standard fit and is only fitted to command vehicles and those vehicles in a high threat environment. The microwave emitter uses focused microwave energy at a low-power to destroy the electronics of an incoming projectile at a range of 984.00 feet (300.00 m) or less. The ideal scenario is for the munition to detonate.

There is another line of defense for the Reaver but it is only available when fitted with a Remote Weapon's Station. That defense is a smoke system. When fitted with the RWS, the Reaver carries 8 66mm smoke grenades. The Reaver can carry a number of smoke grenades that can obscure both visual and infrared spectrums. There is even a grenade that can obscure radar waves through the use of brass flakes and graphite, the former working to obscure the infrared spectrum. A standard visual smoke grenade can obscure the vehicle for as many as four minutes and produce a screen in as little as eight seconds. The Reaver can also carry anti-riot grenades that carry CS gas or PVC balls to deter crowds.

Weapons

The Reaver can carry a multitude of weapons in various modules. It can also carry a single machine gun or grenade launcher for self-defense.

Remote Weapon's Station
The Reaver can fit a Remote Weapon's Station (RWS) on the roof of the cabin. The remote weapon's station is a derivative of the M151 Protector system that has been tailored for the specific needs of the Reaver. This same derivative is used on TELs and other vehicles in the Layartebian military.

The RWS is a brilliant invention that allows a gunner to remain enclosed within the safety of the vehicle without being exposed to enemy combatants and the elements, making the gunner far more effective than he would be otherwise. The RWS consists of a turret mounted onto the roof of the vehicle and fitted with a weapon and ammunition. A control station inside of the vehicle allows the gunner to operate the RWS however he so desires. The RWS is a stabilized system and allows the gunner to fire accurately even at high speeds over rough terrain. It is equipped with optics that allow the gunner to see and target further and also allow the vehicle the ability to identify threats at longer ranges. Aside from mounting a weapon, the RWS can also mount smoke grenade tubes, 8 for the Reaver.

The RWS for the Reaver can traverse a full 360° and it can elevate and depress from -20° to +60° while offering a 45° field of view at all times. Optical sensors allow for a 30x zoom with night vision capabilities. The RWS also features a thermal imager. For ranging, the RWS is equipped with a laser rangefinder that allows for accurate firing solutions that control elevation accordingly to allow for accurate fire within the full range of the weapon's capabilities.

Operable in temperatures ranging from -51°F (-46°C) to 149°F (65°C), the RWS weighs 298.00 pounds (135.17 kg) without any weapons or ammunition. The system, without weapons or ammunition is 30.00 inches (76.20 cm) wide, 25.00 inches (63.50 cm) deep, and 29.50 inches (74.93 cm) high. It can mount a number of light machine guns, automatic grenade launchers, and heavy machine guns. It also has the capability of mounting an anti-tank rocket launcher and a sniper rifle.

For the Reaver, the standard weapon is an M35A1 Light Machine Gun, fitted with 1,200 rounds of 7.62x51mm ammunition. The Reaver can also mount an M49A1 Grenade Machine Gun with 96 rounds of 40mm ammunition, an M50A1 Heavy Machine Gun with 500 rounds of 12.7x99mm ammunition, an M106A2 Squad Automatic Weapon with 1,200 rounds of 6.8x51mm ammunition, or an M119A2 or M119A3 ADEC Light Machine Gun with 1,200 rounds of ammunition. There is a program underway for evaluation of an M31A1 Heavy Machine Gun with an ammunition load of 250 rounds in a single container. Though a 15.5x115mm weapon, 250 rounds for the M31 is considered, at present, to be too insignificant to be carried presently.

MGM-240 Scythe
The MGM-240 Scythe is the newest medium-range artillery rocket in service with the Layartebian military. A descendent of the MGM-209 MLRS rocket, a 227mm rocket and a replacement to both it and the MGM-226 Advanced Range Artillery Rocket (ARAR), a 220mm rocket, the Scythe is a 240mm system. The Scythe comes at a crucial time in Layartebian military technology. With the creation of the Reaver MLRS system and the subsequent retirement of the Viper MLRS in favor of it, the Scythe reached IOC with the Reaver MLRS in 2006.

The Scythe missile is made of high-strength materials to allow it to survive the stresses of launch and flight. The Scythe missile is a total of 15.00 feet (4.57 m) long, 9.45 inches (240mm) in diameter, and it has a wingspan of 15.45 inches (39.24 cm). The missile weighs up to 900.00 pounds (408.23 kg) fully loaded. It is up-scaled from the MGM-209 missile and features a warhead compartment that is 3,156.67 in³ (51,728.55 cm³) in volume and capable of holding a variety of warheads. The missile is powered by a gel-fueled rocket and is equipped with small, forward canards just behind the nosecone and fins in the rear of the missile as well as a thrust-vectoring nozzle capable of a full range of movement.

The Scythe's flight profile is akin to that of normal MLRS rockets. Upon launch, the rocket assumes a ballistic trajectory to achieve ranges throughout its full envelope. The Scythe rocket achieves a maximum speed of Mach 4.00 and it's maximum ceiling is 98,500.00 feet (30,002.80 m). The rocket comes in three primary classes with three ranges. The maximum range of the heaviest class is 40.00 miles (64.37 km), 56.00 miles (90.12 km) for the medium-weight class, and 65.00 miles (104.61 km) for the lightest class. All three classes have a minimum range of 4.00 miles (6.44 km). The Scythe is a single-stage missile. It is guided by an inertial guidance system with a GPS sensor. The guidance system of the Scythe is equipped with an datalink/uplink system as well as a home-on-jam sensor that provides a CEP of up to 5.00 meters against targets of all types. The guidance system is also equipped with a self-destruct sensor that can be activated by the crew of the launching unit. The GPS unit is hardened against jamming and encrypted to prevent reprogramming.

The main warhead for the Scythe is a 425.00 pound (192.78 kg) conventional, high-explosive warhead and found on the "A" variant. There is also a thermobaric warhead of the same weight and volume found on the "E" variant. The fragmentation warhead is equipped with 800 10mm tungsten spheres and weighs the same weight found on the "B" variant. The two cluster options include a heavy and light payload. The light cluster payload includes 4 BLU-108 SFM submunitions and comprises the "D" variant. The heavy cluster payload includes a variety of submunitions. The missile can hold up to 14 BLU-82 anti-personnel, fragmentation submunitions, up to 95 BLU-97 CEM submunitions, up to 95 BLU-114 "Blackout" submunitions, up to 85 BLU-127 IISM submunitions, up to 325 M74 APAM submunitions, or up to 660 M85 DPICM submunitions for the "C" variant. The chemical "F" variant is equipped with up to 180.00 pounds (81.65 kg) of Agent VX or other binary nerve agent. Lastly, the thermonuclear "G" variant is equipped with a W-114 Mod 1 low-yield, tactical warhead with a maximum yield of 20 kilotons and two variable yields of 5 or 10 kilotons. It is also an enhanced radiation warhead.

The Scythe missile costs $450,000.00 for the conventional variants, $500,000.00 for the chemical variant, and $850,000.00 for the nuclear variant. The base missile itself, without a warhead costs $350,000.00. Missiles are exported without warheads for $400,000.00.

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MGM-241 Hurricane
To complement the MGM-240 Scythe medium-caliber artillery rocket, the MGM-241 Hurricane was constructed. The role of the Hurricane was to bring a light-caliber MLRS rocket to both the Defense Forces and the Marines. Due to the Reaver being devised from the Doomani Neco light MLRS, the Hurricane was subsequently devised from the Neco's rocket. The Neco, a 140mm rocket was up-scaled to a 160mm system known as the Hurricane under Layartebian designation.

The Hurricane missile is made of high-strength materials to allow it to survive the stresses of launch and flight. The Hurricane missile is a total of 11.50 feet (3.51 m) long, 6.30 inches (160mm) in diameter, and it has a wingspan of 14.30 inches (36.32 cm). The missile weighs up to 265.00 pounds (120.20 kg) fully loaded. It is up-scaled from the Neco missile and features a warhead compartment that is 500.00 in³ (8,93.53 cm³) in volume and capable of holding a variety of warheads. The missile is powered by a gel-fueled rocket and is equipped with small, forward canards just behind the nosecone and fins in the rear of the missile as well as a thrust-vectoring nozzle capable of a full range of movement.

The Hurricane's flight profile is akin to that of normal MLRS rockets. Upon launch, the rocket assumes a ballistic trajectory to achieve ranges throughout its full envelope. The Hurricane rocket achieves a maximum speed of Mach 2.00 and it's maximum ceiling is 45,000.00 feet (13,716.00 m). The rocket comes in three primary classes with three ranges. The maximum range of the heaviest class is 31.00 miles (49.89 km), 37.00 miles (59.55 km) for the medium-weight class, and 45.00 miles (72.42 km) for the lightest class. All three classes have a minimum range of 4.00 miles (6.44 km). The Hurricane is a single-stage missile. It is guided by an inertial guidance system with a GPS sensor. The guidance system of the Hurricane is equipped with an datalink/uplink system as well as a home-on-jam sensor that provides a CEP of up to 5.00 meters against targets of all types. The guidance system is also equipped with a self-destruct sensor that can be activated by the crew of the launching unit. The GPS unit is hardened against jamming and encrypted to prevent reprogramming.

The main warhead for the Hurricane is a 105.00 pound (47.63 kg) conventional, high-explosive warhead and comprises the "A" variant. There is also a thermobaric warhead of the same weight and volume that is the "B" variant. The fragmentation "C" variant is equipped with 200 10mm tungsten spheres and weighs the same weight. The two cluster options include a heavy and light payload. The light cluster payload of the "D" variant includes 105 M85 DPICM submunitions, 14 BLU-127 IISM submunitions, or 15 BLU-97 CEM submunitions. The heavy cluster payload of the "E" variant is equipped with 72 M74 APAM submunitions. The chemical "F" variant is equipped with 55.00 pounds (24.95 kg) of Agent VX or other binary nerve agent.

The Hurricane missile costs $225,000.00 for the conventional variants and $350,000.00 for the chemical variant. The base missile itself, without a warhead costs $150,000.00. Missiles are exported without warheads for $175,000.00.

MGM-242 Thor II
With the retirement of the MGM-207 Large Caliber Battlefield Artillery Rocket (LCBAR) in 2000, the Layartebian military was left without a suitable replacement. The ATACMS had been replaced with the MGM-209 MLRS and its subsequent system to make way for the Devastator 300mm and Boar/ARAR 220mm rockets. Because of this, the Layartebian Defense Corporation sought to produce a long-range, large-caliber, battlefield, artillery rocket with the capabilities of striking targets at ranges in excess of those afforded by the MGM-207 and any artillery rockets in existence. What resulted was the MGM-242 Thor II, a theater ballistic missile that fell into the category of a short-ranged ballistic missile. Not designed to replace the Vesta, the premier SRBM in the Empire's inventory and in the world, the Thor II was meant to provide a cheaper alternative to high-caliber artillery rockets while offering a powerful punch. The Thor II reached IOC in 2007 and it wouldn't be combat tested until 2008.

The Thor II missile is made of high-strength materials to allow it to survive the stresses of launch and flight. The Thor II missile is a total of 25.00 feet (7.62 m) long, 35.00 inches (890 mm) in diameter, and it has a wingspan of 4.92 feet (1.50 m). The missile weighs up to 10,031.00 pounds (4,550.00 kg) fully loaded. Powered by a gel-fueled rocket, the missile can accelerate at up to +50Gs and it is equipped with grid-fins and thrust vectoring for precise and abrupt steering, even at maximum speed.

The Thor II flies an unpredictable, quasiballistic trajectory and reaches altitudes of up to 40.00 miles (64.37 km). This trajectory option makes the missile very difficult to intercept as its true target location is unpredictable. The Thor II can also be launched within three minutes of arrival at the launch site, making it very difficult to destroy the actual launching vehicle once it has arrived. The Thor II missile has a maximum speed of Mach 10.30 and it has a minimum range of 31.00 miles (49.89 km). When carrying a light payload, its maximum range is 550.00 miles (885.14 km) and with a heavy payload, that range is reduced to 350.00 miles (563.27 km). It is a single-stage missile. It is guided by an inertial guidance system with a GPS sensor. The guidance system of the Thor II is equipped with an datalink/uplink system as well as a home-on-jam sensor that provides a CEP of up to 5.00 meters against targets of all types. The guidance system is also equipped with a self-destruct sensor that can be activated by the crew of the launching unit. The GPS unit is hardened against jamming and encrypted to prevent reprogramming.

The main warhead for the Thor II is a 1,200.00 pounds (544.31 kg) conventional, high-explosive warhead and comprises the "A" variant. There is also a provision for a thermobaric warhead on the "B" variantof the same weight or a fragmentation warhead on the "C" variant with the same weight and up to 25,000 10mm tungsten spheres. The cluster "D" variant can carry a payload of up to 18 BLU-108 SFM, 400 BLU-114 Blackout, 240 BLU-127 IISM, 8 BLU-73 FAE, 85 BLU-87 fragmentation, 350 BLU-97 CEM, 920 M74 APAM, or 1,850 M85 DPICM submunitions. The thermonuclear "E" variant is loaded with a single W-105 Mod 6 thermonuclear warhead capable of a maximum yield of 350 kilotons. It is a variable yield weapon with the ability to be preset to 10, 50, 125, or 350 kilotons. The chemical "F" variant is equipped with up to 380.00 pounds (172.37 kg) of Agent VX or other binary nerve agent.

The Thor II missile costs $2,500,000.00 for the conventional variants and $3,000,000.00 for the chemical or thermonuclear variant. The base missile itself, without a warhead costs $2,250,000.00. Missiles are exported without warheads for $2,600,000.00.

Modules

The versatility of the Reaver is second to none. This is born out of its necessity to replace the HEMTT, HET, and Universal Carrier, three vehicles with three very different purposes. Capable of widely different roles, each vehicle and its subvariants must be replaced properly by the Reaver or else it would be no use to the military. At present, there are many modules of the Reaver available and each one offers a unique capability. All variants can be equipped with a self-recovery winch that allows for weight loadings of up to 25,000.00 pounds (11,339.81 kg).

Ambulance Module
The Ambulance Module is a dual-purpose civilian and military design. As a civilian design, it strips the armor from the vehicle and allows for the up to two stretchers in the rear of the vehicle with one attendant and one rider. The cabin is modified like that of the Emergency Rescue Module and can hold up to eight men inside of it. In the military model, it retains the same armor and armors the rear module to STANAG Level II with III on the rear doors. There are no windows in the rear of the vehicle to provide additional protection for the infirm inside of it. The overall height is increased to 131.50 inches (334.01 cm) and the vehicle is equipped with all of the same supplies as any civilian or military ambulance. Like the Emergency Rescue Module, the transmission is replaced with an automatic and it includes a small, 50 kW generator and an electrical battery system identical to that of the Emergency Rescue Module. The military model retains the V-shaped hull underneath.

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Bridge Module
The Bridge Module is module that was born with the HEMTT. It allows the Reaver to carry, deploy, and recover the Ribbon Bridge, Improved Ribbon Bridge, or the Heavy Dry Support Bridge. Other bridges with similar dimensions can also be transported by the Reaver with this module.

Construction Module
The Construction Module is a module that allows the Reaver to become a dump truck. The dump truck module allows for a dump container that is 192.00 inches (487.68 cm) long at its top and 213.50 inches (542.29 cm) long at its floor , 101.00 inches (256.54 cm) wide, and 108.00 inches (274.32 cm) high for a total capacity of 66.00 yd³ (50.47 m³). However, the dump container itself is limited to a weight of just 26.00 tons (23,586.80 kg). The height of the vehicle is increased to 123.50 inches (313.69 cm). The dump container's side walls are half an inch (12.70 mm) thick and its floor, front wall, and rear gate is one inch (25.40 mm) thick.

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Electrical Generator Module
The Electrical Generator Module is nearly identical to that of the HEMTT. In this configuration, the Reaver carries a pair of 150kW generators each serviced by a 131.25 gallon (496.84 liter) fuel tank allowing for up to 14 hours of independent operation per generator at maximum output. The Reaver can also carry a single 400kW generator and a 200.00 gallon (757.08 liter) fuel tank, which provides for up to 8 hours of independent operation at maximum output pr a 250kW generator and a 200.00 gallon (757.08 liter) fuel tank, which provides for up to 12.50 hours of independent operation.

Emergency Rescue Module
The Emergency Rescue Module essentially turns the Reaver into a fire truck. The module makes an extensive redesign of the vehicle itself and of its capabilities from an offensive weapon to an emergency vehicle. The standard transmission is replaced with an automatic transmission and the vehicle is equipped with an electric battery system, which provides more power to the vehicle, including the pump. The battery can be hooked up to a standard electrical socket for charging. The cabin is redesigned to allow for the capability to seat eight people total with folding seats against the back wall of the cabin. All armor is removed and the vehicle's overall height is 123.00 inches (312.42 cm). The height increase comes from having a 6.00 inch (15.24 cm) deck gun added to the top of the pump of the module. The pump is capable of 2,500 gallons per minute (9,463.53 liters per minute). The truck itself is equipped with four couplings on each side for a 5.00 inch (12.70 cm) line and four more for a 3.00 inch (7.62 cm) line. There is a small, 1.75 inch (4.45 cm) line in the rear of the vehicle with up to 100.00 feet (30.48 m) of hose. The module is capable of holding up to 1,000.00 gallons (3,785.41 liters) of water, 40.00 gallons (151.42 liters) of class "A" foam, and 80.00 gallons (302.83 liters) of class "B" foam. Side panels on the module allow for the storage of gear for as many as twenty-four firefighters at a time. There are two areas in the rear of the vehicle where two firefighters can stand, giving the vehicle a total capacity of ten firefighters. The hose bay can hold up to 2,000.00 feet (609.60 m) of 5.00 inch (12.70 cm) hose and 650.00 feet (198.12 m) of 3.00 inch (7.62 cm) hose, up to four 1.75 inch (4.45 cm) preconnects at 150.00 feet (45.72 m), 200.00 feet (60.96 m), and 250.00 feet (76.20 m). The vehicle is also equipped with a 20 kW generator.

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Guided Missile Module
The Guided Missile Module, like the Logistics Module, is a general purpose designation for a number of possible configurations. It is a system that is primarily intended for surface-to-air missiles and replaces a number of variants of the HEMTT. This module includes an eight-round launcher for the MIM-196 Advanced Anti-Ballistic Missile System (AABMS), a seven-round launcher for the MIM-188 Crow, or a twelve-round launcher for the MIM-202 Dodsengel. For surface-to-surface missiles, the Reaver can carry a launcher for up to four MGM-193 Relic anti-ship missiles, one MGM-239 Vampire anti-ship missile, or a large-caliber artillery rocket, a current system being under development by the Layartebian Defense Corporation.

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Light MLRS Module
The Light MLRS Module is one of two MLRS modules available to the Reaver and is specifically designed for the Doomani military. The module adds a 40 tube 140mm MLRS system to the vehicle, with one set of reloads, which can be reloaded by the vehicle itself. The Light MLRS Module makes the overall height of the Reaver 125.50 inches (318.77 cm). The system allows for a full 360° traverse and an elevation from 0° up to 45° for an optimal firing position. This MLRS module is the same unit as that fitted to the original Neco variant. The actual Neco has a different wheel configuration than the module itself. The Light MLRS module can carry any rocket in the 100 - 160mm category.

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Logistics Module
The Logistics Module of the Reaver is a general purpose designation for a number of possible configurations. The Reaver, as a logistics vehicle, is essentially a cargo carrying vehicle that can be used to carry any number of things ranging from spare parts to missile racks for MLRS or SAM systems. This vehicle is fitted with a heavy-duty crane at the base of the cabin with a maximum boom length of 16.50 feet (5.03 m) with a maximum weight capacity at this boom length of 8,000.00 pounds (3,628.74 kg). For light-duty options, a crane with a boom length of 19.00 feet (5.79 m) with a maximum weight capacity at this boom length of 3,000.00 pounds (1,360.78 kg) can be fitted.

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Medium MLRS Module
The Medium MLRS Module is the most powerful module of all of those fitted. It allows the Reaver to become a deadly weapon with the capability to reign fire and destruction on targets from far away with a significant amount of firepower. This module contains a 30-tube MLRS system though without reloads. Reloads must be towed behind the vehicle or carried on another vehicle. The module fits the 240mm MGM-240 Scythe artillery rocket, which is replaces the MGM-226 ARAR 220mm weapon in service with the Boar and Viper MLRS system. The module allows for a full 360° traverse and an elevation range of 0° to 30° for optimal firing position. Also added with this module is a powerful generator and compressor system which provides proper air pressure for the pneumatic system. The overall height of the vehicle is 133.00 inches (337.82 cm) with this module.

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Recovery Module
The Recovery Module allows the Reaver to become a wrecker. The module itself converts the rear area of the Reaver to a giant tow truck, in essence. The Wrecker Module alone adds an additional 19,500.00 pounds (8,845.05 kg) to the curb weight of the vehicle and allows the Reaver to tow a vehicle weighing up to 30.00 tons (27,215.54 kg).

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Tanker Module
The Tanker Module allows the Reaver to act as a fuel tanker or a water tanker. A tank system armored to STANAG Level II is fitted to the rear of the rear of the vehicle and can hold up to 40,000.00 pounds (18,143.69 kg) of jet fuel or water. If carrying JP-8 jet fuel, the vehicle is limited to a capacity of 5,970.00 gallons (22,598.91 liters). When carrying water, the maximum capacity is limited to 5,000.00 gallons (18,927.06 liters). When carrying ethanol, the Reaver holds 6,069.00 gallons (22,973.66 liters) and when carrying regular gasoline, the maximum capacity is 6,400.00 gallons (24,226.64 kg). All of these quantities represent optimum storage conditions and vary with temperature and humidity, which affect the density of a liquid.

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TEL Module
The TEL module allows the Reaver to transform into a launcher for high-caliber, artillery rockets. The module fits an erector launcher to the vehicle with the capacity of carrying a single missile up to 28.00 feet (8.53 m) long, 4.00 feet (1.22 m) in diameter, and up to 20,000.00 lb. (9,071.85 kg). The erector is fitted to the rear of the vehicle and the missile is mounted at a diagonal to the chassis of the Reaver. When the vehicle comes to its launching location, a pair of outriggers deploy from the module to provide additional stability while the erector is raised, which can be up to a full 90° vertical. The Reaver can carry liquid fueled missiles provided that a fueling truck or trailor is brought with the vehicle itself as there is no provision for fuel storage.

Tractor Module
The most basic module for the Reaver requires very little changes. The tractor module adds a "fifth wheel coupling" to the rear of the vehicle, above the third axle for the capability to tow a trailer. The Reaver can carry medium or heavy trailers and even move heavy equipment such as main battle tanks, fulfilling the role the HET played. In this roll, the HET can move equipment up to 90.00 tons (81,646.63 kg) in weight. The full length of the Reaver, end to end, in this configuration will be its longest possible length, which is 991.00 inches (25.17 m), 622.00 inches (15.80 m) longer than the vehicle itself. The Reaver, in this configuration will be limited to a road speed of 30 mph (48 kph) at maximum. Typical speeds will be between 20 and 25 mph (32 - 40 kph). The same M1000 semi-trailer used on the HET is compatible with the Reaver. The width of the M1000 trailer is 144.80 inches (3.68 m) at its rear bumper and the trailer has an empty weight of 25.00 tons (22,679.62 kg), more than the Reaver itself.

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Procurement Costs

• M2061 Reaver (base configuration): $281,250.00
• Ambulance Module: $168,750.00
• Bridge Module: $281,250.00
• Construction Module: $61,875.00
• Electrical Generator Module: $123,750.00
• Emergency Rescue Module: $450,000.00
• Guided Missile Module: $225,000.00
• Light MLRS Module: $168,750.00
• Logistics Module: $56,250.000
• Medium MLRS Module: $281,250.00
• Recovery Module: $95,625.00
• Tanker Module: $84,375.00
• TEL Module: $140,625.00
• Tractor Module: $28,125.00

• MGM-240 Scythe: $400,000.00 (without warhead)
• MGM-241 Hurricane: $170,000.00 (without warhead)
• MGM-242 Thor II: $2,600,000.00 (without warhead)

[Layarteb]

Piranha Class

Overview

Following the retirement of the PBR and PCF class river patrol boats in the early 1980s, the Empire was left without a capable river patrol vessel. One solution was sought with the Cottish Nightmare class, a fast, agile, and adequately armored river vessel. Unfortunately, the Nightmare was considered too large for some of the more precise applications that both the PBR and PCF classes fit. Weighing in at over 22.50 tons (20.80 tonnes), the Nightmare was ill-suited for rapid transport by helicopter, which the PBR class was well suited for as it weighed only 8 tons (7,527 kg). Though serving with distinction with the Imperial Layartebian Defense Forces, the Nightmare river vessels were not accepted by the Imperial Layartebian Marine Corps, who used various boats such as the Small Unit Riverine Craft (SURC) and other rigid-hull inflatable boats for their river units. The Marines requested a new patrol boat that was suitable for brown-water operations that boasted more firepower and agility than the already heavily armed and extremely agile PBRs, as well as flexibly they had with the SURC.

The solution was the Piranha class, a revamping of the PBR class vessels, resulting in an all new vessel. Though similarities existed between the designs of the two vessels, they were, in essence, completely different. The biggest success of the Piranha class was that, while it was more armored than both the SURC and the PBR, it could still be transported underneath a Super Stallion helicopter. Smaller and lighter than the Nightmare class, it offered better use of its space and dispensed with the ability to carry vast amounts of personnel, not deemed important for the Marine requirements.

Design

The Piranha class river patrol boat is designed much like that of previous vessels with some considerations taken. First and foremost, the vessel is longer at 38.00 feet (11.58 m) with a slightly larger beam at 12.35 feet (3.76 m). It maintains a 3.00 foot (0.91 m) draft of its predecessors. Its full displacement is just 30,240 pounds (13,717 kg). Constructed of fiberglass, the hull of the Piranha is lined with Kevlar to offer limited ballistic protection without the added cost of weight. However, the engine compartment of the Piranha is reinforced with aluminum armor, designed to protect against higher caliber machine gun rounds from mid-range distances. The Piranha class is a full 14,240 pounds (6,459 kg) heavier than its predecessor, most of it being in additional armor and larger dimensions. Because the Piranha is a small vessel, much smaller than the Nightmare class, it can maneuver much quicker and tighter. Like its predecessors, it is meant to operate in shallow, weed-choked rivers. In addition, it can turn itself in its own length, stop in just a few boat lengths, from full speed, and pivot itself to car-like maneuvers.

The Piranha has a crew capacity of four but can transport an additional four personnel for short distances. This allows it to be used to insert Special Forces troops far behind enemy lines. Berthing is minimal and only kept to a single folding bunk from the wall allowing one crew member to sleep. It is not very spacious inside of its hull but is large enough to contain a small locker for food stock, a water purification system, a small area for spare machinery parts and tools, a radio room with bunk, a small arms locker, and space for additional ammunition.

Possibly one of the best features to the Piranha class is a major improvement over its predecessors. The PBR class had a very exposed control section with limited ballistic protection to the sides and front. There was little protection to the rear and there was no protective glass. Many crew captains were killed by skilled snipers capable of shooting between the small, unarmored roof and the walls. The Piranha class adds a full enclosed cabin, which is slightly larger than that of its predecessors. The compartment is fully armored with ceramic plates being used for ballistic protection along the walls and aluminum and Kevlar protection on the ceiling. A sliding door in the rear is armored as well. Bulletproof glass used around the open areas can withstand most rifle and machine gun rounds as well, especially most sniper rounds.

Propulsion & Performance

The Piranha class is powered by a pair of V8 diesel engines each capable of outputting 480 horsepower at 3,500 RPM. Rather than a conventional propeller and rudder setup, the Piranha is equipped with a pair of water jets, just like previous vessels and other river patrol craft. The water jets are partially ducted, which, along with underwater control surfaces similar to a submarine's diving planes, allows the Piranha to execute extremely sharp turns at high speed, decelerate from top speed to a full stop in just a few boat lengths, and adjust its pitch and roll angle while under way. The vessel can use JP-5, JP-8, and marine diesel #2 for sources of fuel and carries with it a total of 215 gallons (814 liters) of fuel. The engines can propel the Piranha up to a top speed of 33.9 knots sprinting and maintain a cruise speed of 31.4 knots.

At top cruise speed, the engines of the Piranha use 28 gallons (106 liters) of fuel per hour, giving it a total range of 241 nautical miles. At a normal cruise speed of 12.3 knots, the engines only use 10 gallons (38 liters) of fuel per hour, for a total range of 264 nautical miles. At a slow cruise speed of 8 knots, the engines only use 4 gallons (15 liters) of fuel per hour, for a range of 430 nautical miles. The maximum reverse speed is 12 knots.

Sensors

Because of its mission, the Piranha class is not equipped with a very sophisticated sensor suite but does carry a lot of equipment. It is equipped with a thermal imaging sensor, a fathometer, aural detection equipment, and a magnetic sensor. Detection for the Piranha class is mostly by visual means although, with the aide of these sensors, the Piranha class can detect threats in terms of both threat and environmental very effectively in all kinds of weather. Regardless, in most, if not all situations, the Mark I Eyeball will play the most important role in threat detection.

The thermal imaging sensor of the Piranha class is derived from the TADS/PVNS also used on the AH-64 Apache. It enables the Piranha to detect heat sources from threats on the surface, underneath the surface, or hiding along the river banks. It can allow, in optimal conditions, longer detection ranges than the radar and also allows the captain of the vessel to see where he is going using night vision, without having to resort to helmet mounted devices.

The most unique detection sensor is aural, which is detection through sound. The system allows the captain of the vessel to listen for barely audible sounds, including voices, at longer ranges than the human ear and without the engine noise being a problem. It is helpful mostly for monitoring for approaching ships, especially in areas with limited visibility, allowing the Piranha an additional means of "first-look" detection.

The equipped fathometer allows the captain of the Piranha to see the depth of the riverbed underneath the hull of the vessel. It is capable of determining a depth of up to fifty feet.

The magnetic sensor of the Piranha is mainly used for detecting underwater mines. While most modern mines are made of plastic, older mines and even threatening objects such as Czech hedgehogs remain excellent defensive means in rivers and pose a gigantic threat to the Piranha class. At higher speeds, the reaction time and range is more limited. The sensor has a range of under 0.25 miles (400 m).

Other equipment afforded to the Piranha includes a GPS device, a powerful gyrocompass.

Weapons

The Piranha can carry a very versatile weapons load, allowing it to complete a various array of different missions in different locations. It is equipped with a forward turret ring, allowing for heavy weaponry to be fitted and a rear tripod mount, like the PBR class. However, its versatility is superior to the PBR class.

In the forward turret ring, the Piranha can mount a pair of heavy or light machine guns, a single grenade machine gun, a pair of Miniguns, a Javelin launcher, and a pair of rocket launchers. The maximum weight capacity of the forward turret is 410 pounds (186 kg) of weaponry. The standard armament includes a pair of M31A2 15.5MM Heavy Machine Guns, each of which can be equipped with a total of 500 rounds of ammunition. A pair of M50A1 12.7MM Heavy Machine Guns can be equipped with 1,000 rounds of ammunition. A pair of M35A1 7.62MM Light Machine Guns or M74A1 7.62MM Miniguns can be equipped with up to 8,000 rounds of ammunition. When equipped with an M49A1 40MM Grenade Machine Gun, the turret can mount a total of 480 rounds. When equipped with a Javelin launcher, the CLU is integrated into the firing system of the turret and a pair of tubes can be fitted. They cannot be fired simultaneously but they can offer the full capabilities of the Javelin missile system, providing the Piranha with stand-off capability. The most unique piece of weapons available to the Piranha's forward turret is the ability to carry up to two M260 Lightweight 70mm rocket launchers. Capable of holding seven 2.75 inch (70 mm) rockets, the M260 can mount a variety of rocket ammunition. Though unguided, these weapons can carry a heavy bunch and greatly assist landing forces during maritime operations. Depending on the ammunition carried, the turret may only have the capacity to hold one launcher. When fitted with either the Javelin launchers or the M260 launchers, the turret is equipped with a special back blast deflection system, which attaches to the rear of the systems and properly vents the back blast away from the ship, which protects the gunner and the crew members. Though this slows reloading time greatly, as the system must be removed and reattached after every loading cycle, it provides a safe way to add additional firepower to the Piranha.

The forward turret ring of the Piranha is armored as well. The gunner sits very low in the turret and can train the turret through foot pedals. A push on the left pedal moves the turret to the left and a push on the right pedal moves the turret to the right. The turret itself has a full 360° train of motion but, with weapons fitted, is limited to ± 110° from center. The turret is equipped with its own, independent, sighting system, similar to that on the CROWS Remote Weapons System. The sighting system uses both optical and thermal detection capabilities with 25x zoom abilities. The sighting system can also work in night vision, providing the gunner with the ability to fire effectively at night. The weapons are operated by a pair of joysticks that are equipped various buttons, to allow the gunner to never remove his hands from them. There are a pair of conventional triggers, which fire the weapons. The right stick is equipped with a HAT switch which allows the gunner to switch between the various sighting modes: thermal, night vision, and electro-optical. The four switch option resets the zoom to 1x. On the right stick as well, there are a pair of thumb buttons, one to the right and one to the left of the HAT switch, which allow for zooming in and zooming out. Each push of the button zooms in 0.1x and is used for fine tuning. Just underneath them are a pair of larger thumb buttons used for preset zoom modes, 1x, 5x, 10x, 15x, 20x, and 25x. The left buttons increase the zoom and the right buttons decrease the zoom. Additionally, there are two more buttons, both of them on the left side of the joystick. The upper allows the gunner to literally lock onto a target, allowing him to fire accurately while the vessel is at high speed or at a high rate of motion. The lower button allows the gunner to unlock the target. Moving the joystick along its X-axis and Y-axis allows for the gunner to target within the view box. The left joystick, on the other hand, is equipped with a different set of controls. The right joystick buttons are largely reserved for the sighting system and the left stick is largely reserved for movement. The turret system is capable of elevating the weapons up to +60° when equipped with machine guns or up to +15° when equipped with either the Javelin or M260. The gunner would depress a thumb button to the right side of the left joystick and pull both sticks back in order to elevate the weapons. The weapons cannot be elevated independently. There is an additional button underneath this side button, which allows the gunner to unlock the sighting system. Normally, the sighting system is slewed to where the weapons point. However, with a press of this button, the gunner can independently move the sighting system, by maneuvering the joystick along its X-axis and Y-axis. Reloading is done manually.

The gunner sits low enough in the turret that his head does not stick out of the top of it. He can adjust the seat to allow himself to see above the top though, should he wish to use his eyes for targeting in addition to the sensor system.

The rear tripod of the Piranha can mount a number of light or heavy machine guns or grenade launchers. It requires an individual to stand but the individual stands in a small hole, reducing his profile significantly. The tripod mount allows for a full range of motion with 360° train and elevation up to 90° with smaller weapons and around 75° for larger weapons. It does not feed from an ammunition system and the ammunition must be self-contained on the weapon itself. It can mount a single M31A1 15.5MM Heavy Machine Gun with 140 rounds ready, a single M35A1 7.62MM Light Machine Gun with 200 rounds ready, a single M49A1 40MM Grenade Machine Gun with a pair of 48-round belts ready, a single M50A1 12.7MM Heavy Machine Gun with 100 rounds ready, a single M91A1 12.7MM Heavy Machine Gun with 200 rounds ready, or an M106A1 or M106A2 6.8MM Squad Automatic Weapon with 200 rounds ready. Reloading is done manually.

The Piranha is also equipped with several 66mm smoke grenades, which are fired from its rear. There are a total of eight tubes, each of which holds a single smoke grenade, which can create a cloud of white smoke 2 meters high and 35 meters wide for 20 seconds. This is especially effective against some missiles and to hide the vessel during attack. Unfortunately, with smoke, if you cannot be seen through it, you cannot see through it yourself.

Procurement Costs

The Piranha class, river patrol boat is available for $8,000,000.00 each.

Specifications

Status: In-Service
Role: Patrol Boat, River
Classification: PBR
Length: 38.00 ft.
Beam: 12.35 ft.
Draft: 3.00 ft.
Displacement: 13.50 long tons
Maximum Speed: 33.9 knots [sprint]; 31.4 knots [cruise]
Powerplant:: 2 V8 diesel engines rated at 480 HP each with 2 water jets
Endurance: 430 nautical miles
Main Weapon: Up to 2 M31A2 15.5MM HMGs with 800 rounds ready, up to 2 M35A1 7.62MM LMGs with 8,000 rounds ready, up to 1 M49A1 40MM GMG with 480 rounds ready, up to 2 M50A1 12.7MM HMGs with 1,000 rounds ready, up to 2 M74A1 Miniguns with 8,000 rounds ready, up to 2 FGM-148 Javelin launchers with 2 rounds ready and 8 rounds stowed, or up to 2 M260 70mm Rocket pods with 14 rounds ready
Secondary Weapon: Up to 1 M31A1 15.5MM HMG with 140 rounds ready and 280 rounds stowed, up to 1 M35A1 7.62MM LMG with 200 rounds ready and 800 rounds stowed, up to 1 M49A1 40MM GMG with 96 rounds ready and 288 rounds stowed, up to 1 M50A1 12.7MM HMG with 100 rounds ready and 400 rounds stowed, up to 1 M91A1 12.7MM HMG with 200 rounds ready and 400 rounds stowed, or up to 1 M106A1 or M106A2 6.8MM SAW with 200 rounds ready and 800 rounds stowed
Other Weapons: 8 66mm Smoke Grenades
Complement: 4 [crew]; 4 [passengers]
Combat Systems: Thermal Imaging Device, Magnetic Sensor, Acoustic Detection Device
Armor Scheme: Up to 15.7mm round ballistic protection in most vital areas
Cost: $8,000,000.00

[Layarteb]

Ra Class

Overview

The Ra class patrol corvette was envisioned first in 2004 as a replacement for the aging Cottish designed and built Leopard patrol corvettes. The Leopard was first demonstrated to the Empire in the early 1980s and adopted immediately with some minor modifications to standardize it to the Imperial Layartebian Military. The Empire purchased a total of fifty-eight vessels valued at $4.93 billion at the time and they served with distinction throughout their tenure. However, with the digital age and the 21st century upon the Empire, the Leopard, though still a formidable foe in its role, was no longer suitable to the needs of the Empire. Instead, a more modern and more capable corvette was needed. That was when the Ra class was first created. The first example set sail in 2006 and it was commissioned in 2007. The current contract to procure a total of fifty-eight vessels to replace the Leopard one-for-one is valued at over $16.5 billion. The Layartebian Defense Corporation has also received approval from the Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Foreign Affairs for foreign export of the Ra class with some modifications, only to be sold to cleared security partners.

Accomodations & Design

The Ra class is designed for speed, agility, and firepower. It is designed in an era when ship designing has never been more efficient. The use of streamlined and unconventional hulls allow ships to move at speeds never before thought possible. Advances in weaponry has allowed a single frigate or destroyer to be more powerful than a battleship could be fifty years earlier. The age of digital electronics also gives a ship the ability to operate entirely on its own, seeing as far as the horizon and further with the aide of over-the-horizon targeting aircraft, UAVs, or even satellites. With all of this in mind, the Ra was designed to perform at the edge of its design abilities and always deliver in the mission set fourth by its commanders.

The hull of the Ra class owes its development to two ship classes that are similar in mission and are advanced enough to be state-of-the-art. Those two are the Freedom class Littoral Combat Ship and the Visby class corvette. Like the Freedom class, the Ra is constructed on a semi-planing monohull that allows for high rates of speed and like the Visby class, the hull is made out of carbon fiber and Kevlar arranged in a sandwich design using a core of PVC. Like the Visby too the hull is slightly angular to deflect radar waves and reduce its radar cross section. Like the Visby, the Ra is designed to be as stealthy as possible.

Figure 1: Hull comparison in terms of maximum allowable speed.

The most important part of the Ra's hull is its very nature. A semi-planing monohull allows for a maximum amount of speed while still supporting the displacement of a vessel. By using a semi-planing monohull, a ship can use the same waterline length as that of a displacement hull, which is normally found on most naval combatants, with the a maximum speed approaching that of a planing hull. The benefit of this is most notably seen in corvettes or light frigates that can use powerful engines and high-speed water jets to reach maximum speed. The Freedom class makes excellent use of this hull type to great effect, able to reach speeds of 45 knots in a sea state of 3.

The remainder of the vessel is designed to be stealthy as well. The superstructure is constructed in an angular fashion to deflect radar waves and provide the vessel with a stealthy cross section even above the deck. The vessel's windows on the bridge are inlaid with gold-tint, which was first used on the canopy of the F-16C Fighting Falcon, lowering that aircraft's radar cross section over its predecessors and have since been used on all canopied aircraft since. Radar absorbing material is used in the construction of the vessel's structure and even on its weapon systems. The main gun of the vessel is designed in an angular fashion and like the Visby, its barrel can be stowed to prevent it from giving off any adverse radar signals. Behind the main gun is a vertical launch system. All above deck parts are constructed of carbon fiber like the hull and use radar absorbent materials. Open hatches are quickly closed to prevent their reflection on radar. Unlike traditional vertical launch systems where a single door covers the whole cell, this system uses bi-folding doors that use sharp edges to deflect radar, like those of the F-22 Raptor. The subsequent systems to the aft of the vessel, such as the quad-launchers and Rolling Airframe Missile launcher are constructed with a large amount of radar absorbent materials as well and are designed to be stowed into positions where they reflect the least amount of radar waves.

The Ra is 205.00 feet (62.48 m) long overall and 192.15 feet (58.57 m) long at the waterline. Its beam is 31.50 feet (9.60 m) and its draft is 10.00 feet (3.05 m). The vessel has a displacement of 625.00 long tons and its block coefficient is 0.339.

The Ra is designed to be operable in all environments and in all sea-states. Thus, its crew accommodations are made to be as comfortable as possible but also as rugged as possible. The standard crew for the Ra is up to 28 men, including 4 officers. An additional 8 men can be carried along, such as an SOF team. They can deploy from the vessel using inflatable rafts, of which enough are carried to evacuate the entire crew of the ship in the case of an emergency. The entire inside of the ship is NBC protected and fully heated and air-conditioned. However, like any ship, the inside is cramped, especially so because of the size of the vessel. Enough supplies can be carried for a 21-day cruise and the inside of the ship includes a variety of compartments that include the bridge, CIC, radio room, sleeping quarters, galley, a medical bay, and a small recreation room. Because of the small size of the vessel a gym was not included but area is available around the ship for deployment of a foldable treadmill or to do light workout routines such as jumping rope, jumping jacks, push-ups, sit-ups, or other similar exercises.

Propulsion & Performance

The propulsion of the Ra class is based on the COGAG principle, which stands for combined gas and gas. In a COGAG system, a ship uses two gas turbine engines to power each shaft. Gearboxes and clutches allowed either one or both turbines to power the shaft. Gas turbines, being most efficient near their maximum power setting, can be throttled variable in a COGAG system, allowing a ship a wide range of power options. Smaller turbines running at their near maximum setting are far more efficient than more powerful turbines running at half power. Because of this principle, the Ra class uses four, small, gas turbines that power three water jets. Water jets were chosen over propellers because of a number of advantages they offer. Water jets allow for high-speeds, high maneuverability, excellent shallow-water performance, and noise reduction over propellers, lowering their Sonar signature.

Figure 2: COGAG illustration.

The main propulsion of the Ra class is the Vericor TF60 gas turbine. It is an up-rated TF50A gas turbine, which powers the Visby class in a CODAG configuration. The TF60 gas turbine engine provides up to 5 megawatts (6,705 shp) of continuous power or up to 5.5 megawatts (7,375 shp) of boost power. Each engine weighs just 2,120.00 pounds (961.62 kg) and is just 62.00 inches (1.57 m) in length, 41.00 inches (1.04 m) in height, and 35.00 inches (88.90 cm) in width. They are made to operate on Marine diesel, kerosene, or jet fuel and their maximum output speed is 16,500 rpm. Compact, light, and powerful, each engine uses just 0.422 lb. of fuel per shp or 191.416 grams of fuel per kilowatt-hour, making them highly efficient, more than the TF50A.

Along with these gas turbine engines, Ra class also uses three very powerful water jets. The three water jets used are Rolls-Royce model S3-112 and can provide between 5,100 kW and 12,600 kW of power per water jet. The S3-112 is light and robust and provides very precise steering and maneuverability. Newly designed bearings allow for reduced wear and tear over previous variants and models and an optimized pump design gives 2 - 3% higher propulsive efficiency. They are particularly lightweight and constructed of stainless steel. They have a full range of motion and can provide full reverse capabilities and have a lower cavitation threshold than other models. They provide excellent agility and significantly increase the onset of speed before cavitation, thanks largely to increases in the internal pressure of the system. They are also much safer than propellers as they cannot become entangled to become a danger to swimmers or marine life, not that either would be a significant issue for the vessel. They provide superior shallow-water performance over propellers because only they need to be submerged and steer using simple thrust vectoring like that of a fighter. They provide a very low aural signature and make the Ra class stealthy to sonar just as its structure is stealthy to radar. Special filters installed on the system allows the water jet to maintain relatively seaweed free over a longer period of time than would otherwise be possible.

Because water jets alone are not optimal for high-speed steering, the Ra class includes two rudders that allow for high-speed and highly accurate maneuvers at maximum speed, allowing the Ra the ability to evade obstacles and perform exceptionally well in chase scenarios.

Because of this highly capable propulsion system and the design of the hull, the Ra can move as fast as 41.60 knots in a sea state of 3 or less and sustain a speed of 35.00 knots. It is considered tactically silent under 10.00 knots. Its total power output is 20.00 megawatts in normal conditions, which equals 26,820.00 shp. In boost power, the total output is 22.00 megawatts or 29,502.49 shp. Its maximum sustained speed is 35.00 knots and its maximum range at a cruise speed of 20.00 knots is 2,200.00 nm (4,074.40 km). Despite its range, the Ra is limited to a 21-day cruise because of the amount of supplies the ship can carry.

Sensors

The Ra class has as advanced a sensor package as any vessel constructed in the 21st century. Because the vessel is small and a mere corvette, its sensor package must be tailored for its size and for its mission. Its main sensor package is a derivative of the AN/SPY-4 Advanced Offensive and Defensive Shipborne Sensor Suite (AODSSS). It also features a derivative of the AN/SQS-57 Advanced SuRace SONAR Suite (ASRSS), although the vessel does not carry any standard anti-submarine weaponry. Instead, the Ra can be used to locate and track submarines and transmit this information to maritime patrol aircraft. For self-defense, the Ra uses a derivative of the AN/SLQ-51 Advanced Electronic Shipborne Self-Defense Suite (AESSDS). All of these systems include a variety of subsystems that function together to provide the Ra with a superior advantage over its enemies.

The main sensor package, the AN/SPY-4J AODSSS is a scaled down version of the AN/SPY-4F. It is also far more tailored than the "F" model as the "F" model is a system that is deployed on fleet auxiliaries with a focus on self-defense, against aircraft and small marine craft rather than larger threats. The "F" model is also very compact and so is the "J" model. The AN/SPY-4 is a three-dimensional radar system that, like the AN/SPY-1, uses a phased array system. Because a phased array radar's effectiveness is judged by the amount of power provided to it, systems like the AN/SPY-1, which use a significant amount of power can detect targets very far away and resist electronic jamming. The radar on the "J" model, because it is meant to be employed on small craft is not near as powerful and thus its performance is not akin to that of a destroyer. However, it can detect targets further away than a normal, conventional radar. In addition to being phased array, the AN/SPY-4 can also use synthetic aperture modes. The radar system on the "J" model uses a main phased array radar for detection and a smaller radar linked to the main AN/SPY-4 for engagement. This allows the Ra to track multiple targets, enough to fire all of its weapons simultaneously at individual targets, guiding each weapon separately.

The AN/SPY-4 is not only limited to aerial detection and it can detect surface targets, including stealthy ones at a rather large distance and engage them simultaneously with aerial targets. The AN/SPY-4 also maintains the ability to keep its emissions completely passive and, when emitting, to keep them at a low probability of intercept, much like the radar on a fighter plane. An IFF system is built into the system and a small, imaging infrared module is included for extremely passive, limited detection. An additional feature of the AN/SPY-4 is an uplink system that allows the Ra class to network into a wide network of Layartebian military machines all around the globe.

The AN/SQS-57G ASRSS is an advanced sonar suite that combines several sonar systems all networked together. Since the Ra does not carry any anti-submarine weaponry, the system is merely for detection and tracking rather than engagement. The "G" variant is specially tailored for use on small patrol corvettes and is meant to work with smaller arrays than would exist on a submarine or on a larger escort ship. The sonar arrays on the Ra class are multiple in nature and include a hull mounted array for primary detection, which allows for the use of a high frequency sonar for minesweeping operations, a towed array, and a variable depth sonar.

The towed array of the Ra is streamed as far as 3,281.00 feet (1.00 km) behind the vessel, where engine and wake noise is minimal. It allows for full detection except in a 45° arc towards the ship, where wake and engine noise are present. It is the most capable of all of the arrays because it is streamed away from the actual vessel and thus it can be used at higher speeds than the other arrays. The towed array is limited to under 32.00 knots, which is its cruise speed; although, above 25.00 knots, it has limited effectiveness. The hull array is a highly sensitive array as well and is used to detect targets except as are in a 45° arc behind the vessel, where engine and wake noise are present. The array is also coupled to a high frequency sonar that has a short range and is used to generate highly precise pictures of underwater targets. Its best application is for minesweeping and detection of close, threatening objects. It is only useful within a 60° cone centered at the bow of the ship within just a few nautical miles. The hull array itself and even the towed array are useful at ranges up to and exceeding 20.00 nm (37.04 km), depending on the sea state. The final array is a variable depth sonar, which is useful only at speeds under 10.00 knots because of the stresses applied to it. The sonar array is suspended underneath the vessel, intending to penetrate the thermal layer, which masks the noise of deeply dived submarines from surface detection. Because this layer is at various depths around the world, the variable depth sonar is be deployed as far as 2,000.00 feet (609.60 m) beneath the ship. It is a sensitive array that has an even further range than other sensors because of its general nature of being deployed deep where surface noise cannot interfere with the sensor.

The third system is entirely for self-defense. The AN/SLQ-51L AESSDS is compact self-defense system that was specifically tailored for small patrol craft. Because it is employed in a scaled down fashion, the AESSDS in this particular application is not as capable or inclusive as its predecessor models. It is built around a multi-tiered system that is linked to the various sensor systems of the Ra. The main computer of the AESSDS processes threat information and classifies it according to the threat level. The system reacts accordingly when the various threats are within range of the vessel's weapons and self-defense systems. The only limit to range with this system is the actual limits to the various sensors of the ship and its weapons and self-defense systems. Against incoming missiles, the Ra can deploy counter-fire in the form of missiles such as the Rolling Airframe Missile or decoys such as chaff or infrared emitters. Against aircraft, the system can fire surface-to-air missiles or use the main gun. Against torpedoes the system can deploy a number of decoys which emit noise or create a false wake, depending on the type of torpedo, which can usually be determined through its cavitation noise. Against ships, the system can use missiles such as the AMESM or the main gun, depending on the threat presented. The AESSDS also has a powerful, electronic jamming component, which uses the actual radar to emit microwave energy towards a specific point in the sky. This process is called "zorching" and can be used to blind missile or aircraft electronics with a high degree of success. The AESSDS can also detect laser energy, which can be pinpointed and subsequently targeted. Since laser is a line-of-sight weapon, its employment must be down within the detection range of the actual AODSSS or AESSDS, which leaves it vulnerable for engagement.

Weapons

The Ra is a patrol corvette and thus is "lightly" armored. It is equipped with a powerful and very advanced main gun, surface-to-surface missiles, surface-to-air missiles, and point defense systems. All of these weapons can be controlled manually by the crew or automatically by the various sensors of the ship. Ammunition is limited and the Ra carries enough ammunition to complete a 21-day cruise.

The main gun of the Ra class is a modification of the Bofors 57mm Mark 3. The Mark 3 is a 70-caliber weapon that is capable of firing up to 220 rounds per minute as far away as 9.18 nm (17.00 km). Lightweight, the Mark 3 is a stealthy design that incorporates angular design to dissipate rather than reflect radar waves. The weapon used on the Ra is designated as the M254 Mod 1 Advanced Gun System. The Advanced Gun System program is a Layartebian designation for a series of ETC guns that range from as small as 76mm to as large as 508mm. However, the M254 Mod 1 is a conventional gun rather than ETC. The Mod 2 is an ETC variant.

The M254 Mod 1 AGS is a 57mm, 90-caliber weapon that can fire a 13.40 lb. (6.08 kg) HE or AP shell as far away as 13.50 nm (25.00 km) without rocket-assistance. An extended range, rocket-assisted projectile can be fired as far away as 16.20 nm (30.00 km) or beyond, depending on the actual round. The standard caliber is 57x438mm, the same used by the Bofors cannon. Firing out a 90-caliber barrel, a shell moves as fast as 4,320.00 fps (1.32 km/s). With rocket-assistance, a shell can reach a maximum velocity of 5,000.00 fps (1.52 km/s). The M254 Mod 1 weighs a total of 18,257.00 lb. (8,281.24 kg). The bore length of the actual cannon is 201.97 in. (5.13 m) and the total length of the gun barrel is 204.12 in. (5.18 m) without a flash suppressor and 215.93 in. (5.48 m) with the flash suppressor. Its rifling length is 179.33 in. (4.55 m) and the entire length of the gun overall is 225.07 in. (5.72 m). Like the Bofors cannon, the M254 Mod 1 has a cyclic rate of fire of 240 rounds per minute and the barrel has an approximate life of 5,500 rounds. The weapon is fully trainable through 360° at a rate of 60° per second and can elevate between -10° and +80° at a rate of 48° per second. The Ra carries a total of 120 rounds ready and up to 240 rounds stowed with the ability to change between various types of ammunition as each round is drawn from the magazine and into the weapon.

The Ra also has a pair of heavy machine guns for close-in defense, particularly against small craft. Mounted port and starboard, towards the aft of the vessel, these two M31A1 Heavy Machine Guns are mounted on a tripod that weighs 44.00 pounds (19.96 kg) that allows each machine gun to traverse a full circle and elevate between -10° and +80° and is moved manually. The M31A1 uses the powerful 15.5x115mm cartridge and can fire any number of bull types, the most common being an armor-piercing, incendiary round similar to the Raufoss .50BMG round. When not using this round, the operator will often be firing ball, AP, or even a Saboted Light Armor Penetrator (SLAP) round. The M31A1 is modeled after the failed BRG-15 and uses a dual-feed mechanism that draws ammunition from two 70-round boxes on either side of the weapon. It has a select-fire switch that allows the operator to fire in semi-automatic, five-round burst, or fully automatic fire. Burst fire is recommended. Some M31s can be fitted with a casing collection system that allows ejecting rounds to travel through a tube to a box for collection and this option can be carried on the ship at a minor increase in weight. This allows for safer operation and allows for the brass to be reused. The overall length of the weapon is 84.65 in. (2,150.11 mm) and its barrel length is 59.05 in. (1,499.87 mm). The weapon itself is 140.00 lb. (63.50 kg) and can fire at up to 600 rounds per minute with an effective range of 1,800.00 meters and a muzzle velocity of 1,372.00 m/s. Against aircraft, the weapon can be effective up to 6,000.00 ft. (1,829.00 m). Each weapon is loaded with 140 rounds at the ready in the two boxes and there are up to 840 rounds held in 12 boxes stowed per gun.

There is a small arms locker onboard for assault rifles, pistols, and even light, anti-tank, unguided rockets such as the M101A1 Collapsable Lightweight Attack Weapon (CLAW).

Aside from the guns, the other main weapon system of the Ra is a vertical launch system located behind the gun. Because the Ra is not a large vessel, even the compact Mark 48 VLS is too large to be fitted and thus weapons like the RIM-162 Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (ESSM) cannot be carried. Instead, designers modified the AIM-204B Escape missile to be ship-launched as a surface-to-air missile and designated it the RIM-204C, Escape being its name. The vertical launch system is a cold-launch system that contains six canisters, each one capable of holding up to five missiles. The total size of the system is 108.00 in (2.74 m) wide, 73.50 in. (1.87 m) deep, and 132.00 in. (3.35 m) in height. Each canister is 30.00 in. (76.20 cm) wide and 120.00 in. (3.05 m) in length. The weapon system is compact enough to be fitted onto small ships such as the Ra and offer a significant amount of firepower. Because the system is cold-launched, it does not require the additional piping or equipment to vent the hot gases of a hot-launch system. Additionally, the use of a cold-launch system is also safer. Should a missile engine fail, the system can safely eject the missile out of the cell where it cannot detonate. Because the tubes are not sustained to the high stresses of a launch, they have a considerably longer life and are cost-effective.

The RIM-204C Escape missile 9.63 feet (2.94 m) long, 6.00 inches (15.24 cm) in diameter, and has a 12.00 inches (30.48 cm) finspan. It carries a 25.00 pound (11.34 kg) blast-fragmentation warhead and it weighs 225.00 pounds (102.06 kg). It can fly as fast as Mach 3.50 and has a range envelope of between 0.20 miles (321.87 m) and 20.00 miles (32.19 km) with a ceiling limit of 60,000.00 feet (18,288.00 m). It has no minimum ceiling giving it the ability to engage sea-skimming missiles or aircraft. Powered by a gel-fueled rocket, the Escape utilizes thrust-vectoring, aerodynamic strakes, and skid-to-turn methods to make turns as sharp as 75Gs or 75°/second. The guidance for the missile is provided by an imaging infrared seeker coupled with a focal plane array that is capable of seeing as far as 135° to any direction from its center position that also includes a command guidance module to allow the ship to datalink to the missile and guide it to the target rather than let it track on its own. Because of its guidance system, the Escape will not be fooled by pyrotechnic flares like traditional, passive, infrared missiles. The Escape's flight profile saw it launch out of a shortened vertical launch system up to an altitude of approximately 100.00 feet (30.48 m) to 200.00 feet (60.96 m) and then the missile uses its thrust vectoring and other maneuvering systems to make a sharp turn towards the target. A standard load is thirty missiles.

For point-defense against missiles and even aircraft, the Ra is also equipped with a single Mark 49 Rolling Airframe Launcher, which carries 21 missiles. The launcher itself can traverse a full circle and elevate between -25° and +80° and it weighs a total of 11,431.00 pounds (5,185.01 kg) above deck and 2,068.00 lb. (938.03 kg) below deck, fully loaded. The current RAM missile is the RIM-116D Rolling Airframe Missile Block III. It is an improvement over the RIM-116C Block II missile, which was larger and better equipped than either the RIM-116A or RIM-116B variants. Each RIM-116D weighs in at 188.00 lb. (85.28 kg), which is 26.00 lb. (11.79 kg) heavier than the A and B versions and 18.00 lb. (8.16 kg) heavier than the C version. Each missile is 9.25 ft. (2.82 m) long, 5.75 in (146.05 mm) in diameter, and are equipped with the same 25.00 lb. (11.34 kg) warhead as its previous versions. The blast fragmentation warhead is the same used in the AIM-9X Sidewinder. Stabilized by rolling through the air, the RIM-116D is equipped with a gel-fueled rocket motor and sustainer with thrust-vectoring nozzles. Each RIM-116D is guided by a 105° imaging infrared seeker that is also equipped with a passive radio sensor, which can home in on the radar emissions of an enemy missile. Like the previous versions, there are various guidance modes. In the first, the IIR mode is only used against threats that do not emit detectable RF radiation whereas the passive radio is used if there is detectable RF radiation. There is a third mode that enables IIR guidance the entire way to the target. It also features the same IRDM (dual mode) guidance used on the previous versions, enabling launch in IIR guidance but switching over to passive radio when the RF emissions are detectable. The missile has a maximum speed of Mach 2.80 at sea level and can accelerate at +60G's. Its engagement envelop is between 0.25 miles (402.34 m) and 12.50 miles (20.12 km). Its maximum ceiling is 26,250 ft. (8,000 m) and has a pK against 0.965 against missiles and over 0.98 against aircraft. It offers 100% more range, a 26% heavier warhead, 128% more altitude, and slightly more speed than the SA-N-11 Grison missile used on the Kashtan. However, it is larger and nearly 50% heavier. A standard load is twenty-one missiles.

For surface targets that are out of range of the main gun, the Ra carries two Mark 141 Quadruple Missile Launchers that hold a total of 8 missiles. Situated to the rear of the vessel, they are angled at 60° when launching and can be stowed lower to limit their radar reflection, a feature that is unique to just the Ra class. The main missile is the RGM-205B Advanced Multi-Environment Strike Missile (AMESM). It is only 14.00 feet (4.27 m) in length with a diameter of just 14.00 inches (35.56 cm) and a wingspan of 5.65 feet (1.60 m). It is equipped with a wingless, 1.12 foot (34.14 cm) booster that provides it with the initial momentum past subsonic flight and to its cruise speed of Mach 1.25. The missile itself weighs 1,600.00 pounds (725.75 kg) while the booster adds an additional 100.00 pounds (45.36 kg). It uses a 350.00 pound (158.76 kg) blast-fragmentation, penetrating warhead. The AMESM has a minimum range of 10.00 miles (16.09 km) and a maximum range of 195.00 miles (313.82 km). The missile can sea-skim and conduct a terminal pop-up maneuver to fly at a pre-programmed flight altitude and it has a CEP of approximately 2.50 meters. Its guidance is made up of an IIR seeker with a target database as well as a GPS subset and a datalink system. A standard load is eight missiles.

For additional defense, the Ra class is equipped with two missile launchers for MANPAD missiles. The main model is the FIM-186A, which uses a launch unit that weighed 15.00 pounds (6.80 kg) unloaded. The Wizard missile is 5.25 feet (1.60 m) long and has a diameter of 3.50 inches (8.89 cm). It has pop-out fins like the Stinger than give it a span of 4.50 inches (11.43 cm). The missile itself weighs just 30.00 pounds (13.61 kg) and round-up, the whole system weighs 45.00 pounds (20.41 kg). The missile is equipped with a small, 8.00 pound (3.63 kg) blast-fragmentation warhead that has a lethal radius of some 10.00 feet (3.05 m). A single-stage missile, the Wizard is capable of speeds up to Mach 2.5 and has an engagement envelope that is between 105.60 feet (32.19 m) and 5.00 miles (8.05 km). It can engage targets up to 26,000.00 feet (7,924.80 m). Powered by a gel-fueled, boost/sustain rocket like the Stinger, the Wizard is also equipped with a thrust-vectoring system and is capable of high agility against aircraft and helicopters. It has limited capabilities against other missiles. Guidance is provided by a 105° imaging infrared seeker that is more or less a further development of the seeker used on the Stinger-RMP Block II. There are a total of twenty missiles stored for use on the two launchers and are kept in the small arms locker inside of the ship.

Variants

The Ra class is available in two variants. The primary variant is detailed above and costs $290,000,000.00 per hull. An export variant that is listed as $365,000,000.00 is identical except for two areas. The export variant does not include the sensor systems listed with the main class but does include similar systems that including a tracking and engagement radar, sonar arrays including a towed array, and a fully integrated uplink and self-defense system. The other area is the full weaponry. The export variant does not include the same weaponry, instead opting for the Bofors 57mm Mark 3 in place of the main gun, two M2HB Heavy Machine Guns in place of the M31s, the IRIS-T SL in place of the RIM-204C, the RIM-116B Rolling Airframe Missile in place of the RIM-116D, the RGM-84 Harpoon in place of the RGM-205, and the FIM-92 Stinger in place of the FIM-186 Wizard.

Procurement Costs

Ra Flight I Class: Domestic Purchase Only
Ra Flight II Class: $365,000,000.00

Specifications

Status: In-development [Flight I]
Role: Patrol Corvette
Classification: PC
Length Overall: 205.00 ft.
Length at Waterline: 192.15 ft.
Beam: 31.50 ft.
Draft: 10.00 ft.
Displacement: 625.00 tons
Block Coefficient: 0.339
Hull Quantity: 1 semi-planing monohull
Maximum Sprint Speed: 41.60 knots
Maximum Sustained Speed: 35.00 knots
Tactical Silent Speed: 10.00 knots
Powerplant: Four Vericor TF60 5MW gas turbine engines, 20MW total, COGAG
Power Output: 26,820 shp
Shafts: 3 Rolls-Royce S3-112 water jets, 2 rudders
Endurance: 2,200nm @ 20 knots
Main Gun: 1 M254 57mm/90 caliber Advanced Gun System with 120 rounds ready and 240 rounds stowed
Small Arms: 2 M31A1 15.5MM Heavy Machine Guns with 140 rounds loaded and 840 rounds stowed per gun (1 port, 1 starboard)
VLS Missiles: 1 Vertical Launch System with 6 cells for 30 RIM-204 Escape missiles (108" wide x 73.5" deep x 132" high)
Other Missiles: 2 Mark 141 Quad Launchers with 8 RGM-205 AMESM missiles
CIWS: 1 Mark 43 RAM Launcher with 21 RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missiles ready (1 aft)
MANPADS: 2 FIM-186A Wizard launchers with 1 round ready and 9 rounds stowed per launcher
Crew: 4 officers, 24 enlisted, 8 SOF
Combat Systems: AN/SPY-4J AODSSS, AN/SQS-57G ASRSS
Countermeasures: AN/SLQ-51L AESSDS
Unit Cost: $290,000,000.00

[Layarteb]

Mark 205 CIWS

Overview

With the effectiveness of gun-only CIWS systems largely understood to be minimal, the Imperial Layarteb Navy sought a secondary system in the RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile. Meant to complement the Mark 15 Phalanx 20mm CIWS system, the Rolling Airframe Missile proved to be superior, in all aspects, to the Phalanx. The upgraded Phalanx II, which used a 15.5mm Gatling gun instead of the 20mm Vulcan was even less effective. Following the severe damaging of a Dnalkrad air-defense frigate off the coast of the Falkland Islands by an anti-ship Exocet missile, the Layartebian Defense Corporation sought to produce a new CIWS system that could create a combined missile/gun system, to increase effectiveness. Already in trials, the Sea RAM, which replaced the gun of the Phalanx with an 11-round RIM-116 launcher was used as one of the developmental projects. With the introduction of the Kashtan system and the Millenium Gun, new technologies and designs began available. After an extensive trial period, the Mark 205 CIWS was finally constructed and put into trials. It featured a pair of powerful 35/90 millimeter twin-barrelled autocannons and a single 11-cell RIM-116 launcher, giving it more power than the Kashtan, a combination that the Sea RAM did not have, and much more effectiveness than the Phalanx.

Design

The Mark 205 CIWS is designed with the thinking that it will be the only thing standing between the lives of hundreds or thousands of men and certain death. As life is valued over machinery in the Imperial Layartebian Military, the Mark 205 was spared no expense in its developmental stage. The result is an automated system that can operate completely independently. It is not necessarily a large system but it is bigger than the compact Phalanx system it intends to replace. It is laid out in the way the Kashtan is with a pair of cannons on its sides with a shoulder pod for Rolling Airframe Missiles on its right side. The system is also built to allow for a very large frame of motion. It can traverse a full 360° when space permits and the system itself has an elevation range of -10° to +10° allowing for a two-axis movement. The system itself requires deck penetration due to its size and weight. The system itself weighs 25,815 lb. (11,710 kg) empty and 34,850 lb. (15,808 kg) loaded with ammunition and missiles. It is slightly heavier than the Kashtan system, which weighs 34,172 lb. (15,500 kg) loaded. The Mark 205 CIWS includes its own sensor systems as well as an independent gas operating system to enable quicker spin-up time for the autocannons. Where timing is everything, the gas-operation system allows for much quicker spin-up time for the cannons than if they were electrically powered. The system can train at a rate of 115° per second, the same speed afforded to the Phalanx, which gives it a distinct advantage over such systems as the Kashtan. Though much heavier, this is accomplished through heavy-duty gyros and motion systems. However, the Mark 205 does have another added feature. Like the Millenium Gun, it has a quick instant velocity rate, allowing instantaneous acceleration of 145° per second. The system can elevate at a rate of 65° per second with an instantaneous acceleration rate of 85° per second.

The electrical power requirements are 600 V AC at 60 Hz. Like the Phalanx, the system uses chilled seawater for its electronics cooling. Also, like the Phalanx, it has inputs for true compass ship's heading.

Fire Control

The fire control system of the Mark 205 is developed from the Phalanx system but heavily improved. Designed to be fully automated and independent, the system can track and categorize as many as 45 targets thanks to its multiple sensors, which include an electro-optical sensor for backup, an infrared search & track system, and uses a LADAR for its primary detection means. It uses a variety of methods to detect incoming threats that include surface and aerial contacts. Modified for all-weather operation, the system has a target classification system similar to that of the Phalanx. Contacts are first analyzed for their heading. If a target is not heading towards the ship, it is discarded like the Phalanx did. Then, like the Phalanx, it determines if the contact is actually heading to attack the ship. Based on the heading and speed of the ship and the missile, the computer plots a course for both and determines if there will be an impact point. If not, the system can discard the missile. This can be overridden manually if the threat comes close enough to be a possible threat, which is highly useful against nuclear munitions. However, unlike the Phalanx, there is an even larger minimum and maximum velocity envelope. There is, in essence, no upper limit to the speed of an incoming threat, useful for keeping hypersonic contacts in the database. Minimum speeds are adjusted to include slower traveling surface craft.

The system is designed to detect threats out as far as 25.00 mi (40.25 km), track them as far out as 15.50 mi (25.00 km). The system can be linked into the main sensor system of the ship, allowing for longer-range detection, although it cannot operate until the threat comes within this engagement envelope. The system does contain an IFF database that is coordinated with that of the ship itself. Though highly immune to electronic jamming, the system contains the backup EO system, which can see as far as the limits of the horizon and a powerful IRST system, which allows for excellent short-range detection. It also allows for added all-weather capabilities and incorporates a laser-rangefinder for full fire control solutions. If the LADAR becomes inoperable, the IRST can operate the system as effectively.

Weapons

The Mark 205 would be nothing without its weapons. It features both cannons and missiles, which combine the best of both worlds. Missiles provide the longer-range and higher accuracy fire required, especially against hypersonic missiles and potent threats that are jinking. They can also be used against aircraft as well, providing point-defense for the ship. Its cannons, on the other hand, provide a more numerous solution and are highly effective against subsonic missiles. They can also be used highly effectively against aircraft. The system combines an 11-round missile pod with a pair of twin autocannons, giving more available firepower than either the Kashtan, the Goalkeeper, or the Phalanx.

The cannon armament of the Mark 205 is made up of a pair of M306A1 Stinger autocannons. Gas-operated, electrically fired, these autocannons operate on the Gast principle. They are based on heavily on the 2A38M 30 mm cannons used on the 2S6M Tunguska, which are 30mm twin autocannons that have a rate of fire equal to 4,800 rounds per minute between the two of them. The M306A1 Stinger autocannons use the 35x228mm round, heavier and more powerful than the 30x165mm round used by the Tunguska and 30x173mm round used by the Goalkeeper. It is significantly more powerful than the 20x102mm round used by the Phalanx. Each M306A1 Stinger mounts a pair of 90-caliber barrels that can fire up to 2,500 rounds per minute although the system is capable of speeds above 3,500 rounds per minute. Due to economic reasons as well as accuracy reasons, the guns are limited to 2,500 rounds per minute. Combined, they offer up to 5,000 rounds per minute. While only half the rate of fire offered by the Kashtan, there are a number of advantages. It does offer a higher rate of fire over both the Goalkeeper and the Phalanx. However, because the M306A1 Stinger is not a Gatling gun, it does not have the problem of round dispersion that all three of these other systems suffer from, especially the Kashtan. While the Stinger has a lower rate of fire than the Kashtan, it can put far more rounds on target accurately than any Gatling gun system. In addition, because it is an autocannon and gas-operated, it can spin up to its full rate of fire much more quickly than any Gatling gun system can. This is crucial when engagements may only last a few seconds.

The Stinger autocannons are capable of the full traverse of the Mark 205 and can elevate between -15° and +85° by themselves. When combined with the elevation abilities of the mount, its funn range of elevation is between -25° and +95° giving it a larger elevation range than any other CIWS system. The guns themselves can elevate at 130° per second with an instanteous acceleration rate of 160° per second. Each autocannon is fed by two drums of 500 rounds each. The system can fire a full range of AP, HE, FAPDS, and AHEAD rounds and the rounds can be mixed within its drums. Firing at full speed under constant duration, the Stinger can empty its 2,000 rounds in under 25 seconds firing at 83 rounds per second. In contrast, the Kashtan can empty its 1,000 round magazine in under 7 seconds firing at 166 rounds per second. The advantage to the Stinger is less reloading, better probability of a hit, and less dispersion.

The muzzle velocity for the Stinger autocannon is very high, which allows it for a longer range than most guns in its class. It can fire AP and HE rounds at a speed of 3,855 fps (1,175 m/s), FAPDS rounds at a speed of 4,724 fps (1,440 m/s), and AHEAD rounds at a speed of 3,445 fps (1,050 m/s). Its effective range is 3.42 mi (5.50 km) slant range with a maximum ceiling of 13,123 ft. (4,000 m).

The missile armament of the Mark 205 is the RIM-116 Rolling Aiframe Missile and the system carries eleven missiles. The current missile is the RIM-116D Rolling Airframe Missile Block III. It is an improvement over the RIM-116C Block II missile, which was larger and better equipped than either the RIM-116A or RIM-116B variants. Each RIM-116D weighs in at 188.00 lb. (85.28 kg), which is 26.00 lb. (11.79 kg) heavier than the A and B versions and 18.00 lb. (8.16 kg) heavier than the C version. Each missile is 9.25 ft. (2.82 m) long, 5.75 in (146.05 mm) in diameter, and are equipped with the same 25.00 lb. (11.34 kg) warhead as its previous versions. The blast fragmentation warhead is the same used in the AIM-9X Sidewinder. Stabilized by rolling through the air, the RIM-116D is equipped with a gel-fueled rocket motor and sustainer with thrust vectoring nozzles. Each RIM-116D is guided by a 105° imaging infrared seeker that is also equipped with a passive radio sensor, which can home in on the radar emissions of an enemy missile. Like the previous versions, there are various guidance modes. In the first, the IIR mode is only used against threats that do not emit detectable RF radiation whereas the passive radio is used if there is detectable RF radiation. There is a third mode that enables IIR guidance the entire way to the target. It also features the same IRDM (dual mode) guidance used on the previous versions, enabling launch in IIR guidance but switching over to passive radio when the RF emissions are detectable. The missile has a maximum speed of Mach 2.80 at sea level and can accelerate at +60G's. Its engagement envelop is between 0.25 miles (402.34 m) and 12.50 miles (20.12 km). Its maximum ceiling is 26,250 ft. (8,000 m) and has a pK against 0.965 against missiles and over 0.98 against aircraft. It offers 100% more range, a 26% heavier warhead, 128% more altitude, and slightly more speed than the SA-N-11 Grison missile used on the Kashtan. However, it is larger and nearly 50% heavier.

The RIM-116 pod is independently moved from the gun systems. It can elevate between -10° and +90° by itself, which allows for -20° and +100° when the tilt is in motion on the base system. Missiles are electrically fired and optimized for anti-missile use but are highly efficient and effective against maneuvering aircraft, able to manuever against aircraft pulling as many as +10Gs. They are fired on a direct line to the target path and do not contain any lofting parameters.

Parameters

Each Mark 205 system costs approximately $25,000,000.00 by itself. Each RIM-116D Rolling Airframe missile costs an additional $600,000.00. When dealing with export situations, the RIM-116C Rolling Airframe Missile is exported at a price of $550,000.00. With its full cannon and missile load, the system can cost up to $7,000,000.00 more. The system does require deck penetration but is meant to work in the same base print of the Phalanx. However, its overall size is larger than that of the Phalanx.

Procurement Costs

Mark 205 System: $25,000,000.00
RIM-116C Rolling Airframe Missile Block II: $550,000.00
Total System [11 missiles + ammunition: $31,250,000.00

[Layarteb]

.:. bump .:.

[The United Archipelago]

Commonwealth of The United Archipelago
Department of Defense

The Commonwealth Airforce would like to purchase

Twenty F-54 Adders for $800,000,000
Ten F-55A Shooting Stars for $1,100,000,000

With The Sam Purchase yearly until Contract terminated if possible.

[Layarteb]

We at the Layartebian Defense Corporation would like to inform you that your orders has been accepted. However, we wish to warn you of several things. At the present time, this order constitutes nearly 70% of your total defense budget and we feel that, indefinitely, such a drain on your defense budget would create a situation whereby payment may be delayed. Additionally, we do not agree to indefinite contracts, all contracts must be met with a definite time period. Penalty would be applied if the contract duration was not honored in full.

Francine Samson
Director of Sales, Division 4

[The United Archipelago]

Commonwealth of The United Archipelago
Department of Defense

Very well, we will purchase this order, and should we feel that it was a good buy we will buy further, is that acceptable?

[Layarteb]

That is highly acceptable but should you require a yearly purchase, we would require a contract.

Francine Samson
Director of Sales, Division 4

[Layarteb]

.:. bump .:.

[L3 Communications]

To: Layartebian Defence Corporation
From: L3 Communications Corporation
Subject: Purchases

We've reviewed your catalogue and wish to purchase the following, over the course of eight years, whereby we shall pay $500 million Universal Standard Dollars each year and receive an eighth of the total purchase per year.

Item	Quantity	Price
F-55C Shooting Star II	8	$960 Million
F-55D Shooting Star II	4	$480 Million
F-58A Viper	32	$2.56 Billion
Total Price	44	$4 Billion

We hope that these terms will be agreeable and we will have a successful transaction.

Signed,
Douglas Meyers
CEO, L3 Communications

[Layarteb]

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Layartebian Defense Corporation have approved your order and at the stated terms. Penalty for reneging on a contract shall be set with our standard terms in that all undelivered materials will be seized by the Imperial Layartebian Military and payment demanded for services rendered. We hope to have future business with L3 Communications.

Arnold White
Director of Sales, Division 8

[Layarteb]

.:. bump .:.

[Pokemonman]

2 Ra Classes please.

Total: $580,000,000

[Layarteb]

$730mn for export cost.

[Pokemonman]

$730mn for export cost.

$150,000,000 for exporting 2 ships!!!!!!!
Forget it...

[Layarteb]

$730mn for export cost.

$150,000,000 for exporting 2 ships!!!!!!!
Forget it...

If you read "Procurement Costs" you would have seen the price. Tough nuggets.

[Pokemonman]

$730mn for export cost.

$150,000,000 for exporting 2 ships!!!!!!!
Forget it...

If you read "Procurement Costs" you would have seen the price. Tough nuggets.

True... fine 730mn will be yours.

[Layarteb]

Bump