Instead of rushing to create and test alternative weapon loadouts, the Norse engineers opted instead to stick with the original prototype for the Wolverine while electing for heavier levels of armor protection. This initial failure did not go unnoticed by the AFFS High Command and they urged the company to stick with the initial proposed design. The design team then made arrangements to allow the initial prototype to mount a PPC and additional heat sinks in place of the Autocannon, but the first PPC they were able to secure was completely unsuitable for the test frame, due to significant overheating and EM interference making for a wholly inaccurate weapon. Initially this was accomplished with the inclusion of a prototype Autocannon and medium-class laser, but Norse BattleMech Works felt this made the design too lightly armed compared to the competitors it was influenced by. The designers, led by Supervising Engineer Russell Bell, while using the aforementioned inspirations opted for maneuverability, followed by a balanced weapons loadout with both offensive reach and close-in firepower without taxing heat exchange systems. Fierce competition followed suit by companies within Richard Varnay's Capellan March with Norse BattleMech Works ultimately winning a contract with the AFFS. When the Terran Hegemony debuted their Shadow Hawk and Griffin - the Davions suddenly had their answer in which they could model a design that fit their requirements for an ideal cavalry 'Mech. At the time, while they fielded their own versions of the Mackie and BattleAxe - they were too massive, slow, and lacked maneuverability.
ĭuring the Age of War, the early history of the Wolverine was born as a direct result of the Federated Suns' need for a front-line unit that could keep up with a forward advance and outmaneuver enemy BattleMechs. With the same electronics package as the Phoenix Hawk and mobility that allows it to keep up with most medium 'Mechs, the Wolverine is often used for command purposes when working with medium units, in spite of the terrible visibility and cramped cockpit due to the placement of the head-mounted weaponry. Although meeting all the requirements for just such a machine, the Wolverine has since become known for its versatility and is considered a jack of all trades throughout the Inner Sphere. The Wolverine was developed as a fast strike BattleMech, one which could take part in missions requiring speed and firepower but too hazardous for lighter recon 'Mechs.
0 kommentar(er)
