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Difference between revisions of "Spider"

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|model=SDR-5V
 
|model=SDR-5V
 
|production year=2650
 
|production year=2650
|year reference=<ref>''Technical Readout: 3025'', p. 18</ref><ref name=TRO3039-107>''Technical Readout: 3039'', pp. 106-107</ref>
+
|year reference=<ref name=TRO3025r>''Technical Readout: 3025 Revised'', p. 20-21</ref><ref name=TRO3039>''Technical Readout: 3039'', p. 106-107</ref>
 
|class=Light
 
|class=Light
 
|cost= 2,984,540 C-bills  
 
|cost= 2,984,540 C-bills  
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*2x[[Medium Laser]]s
 
*2x[[Medium Laser]]s
 
|BV (1.0)= 514
 
|BV (1.0)= 514
|BV (2.0)= 622<ref name=TRO3039-107/>
+
|BV (2.0)= 622<ref name=TRO3039/>
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
==Description==
 
==Description==
The '''''Spider''''' was originally designed by Newhart Industries as a [['Mech]] to be used by [[SLDF]] commando forces. Following the fall of the [[Star League]], the [[Free Worlds League]] acquired the plans for the 'Mech and Nimakachi began producing it. The League was not interested in the design, so they began exporting it to an interested [[Draconis Combine]]. Eventually, they also began to produce it on their [[Lapida II]] plant. The [['Mech]] gets its name from the unique pattern on its chest that radiates from the [[Medium Laser]] mounts in its center torso. The ''Spider'' is one of the most maneuverable [[BattleMech]]s ever conceived. It has a ground speed that is comparable to a ''[[Locust]]'' and can out jump either the vaunted ''[[Wasp]]'' or ''[[Stinger]]'' light [['Mechs]]. ''Spider''s are generally used as fast strike forces to hit an enemy's rear with lightning speed.<ref name=TRO3039-107/><ref name=IRS>''Introductory Record Sheets'', p. 3</ref>
+
The '''''Spider''''' was the first [[BattleMech]] produced by Newhart Industries and designed as a light reconnaissance and attack 'Mech to be used by [[Star League Defense Force]] Special Operations, such as the [[Blackhearts]]. Beyond exceeding all of the SLDF's minimum requirements Newhart had actually designed the ''Spider'' before receiving the [[Star League]]'s request for proposals and were ready to begin production immediately, factors which helped the company win the contract very quickly.  In terms of maneuverability the ''Spider'' has a ground speed comparable to a ''[[Locust]]'' and can out-jump either the vaunted ''[[Wasp]]'' or ''[[Stinger]]'' light 'Mechs.  Built with top-of-the-line reliable parts, sophisticated reconnaissance equipment and an energy weapon payload which allowed for extended operations without resupply, the ''Spider'' was a great success.  While not produced in large numbers it could be rapidly manufactured and so served up through to the end of the Star League.<ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/>
 +
 
 +
Newhart's ''Spider'' factory on [[New Earth]] was destroyed in [[2776]] as part of the [[Amaris Civil War]] and very few ''Spiders'' ended up in the hands of the [[Successor States]] when the Star League dissolved.  As their numbers began to dwindle during the [[Succession Wars]] entire offensive operations were conducted simply to secure spare parts for these 'Mechs. So rare was the ''Spider'' that [[Wolf's Dragoons]] were notable for having large numbers of them, including an entire [[lance]] of just ''Spiders''. This trend towards extinction was finally reversed when the [[Free Worlds League]] was able to secure the schematics for the ''Spider''.  In a deal with [[Nimakachi Fusion Products Limited]], the company was given exclusive control of the 'Mech's technical specifications in exchange for building them for the Free Worlds League. Nimakachi began building new ''Spiders'' from their factory on [[Tematagi]] and later expanded their facilities on [[Lapida II]] to produce them as well, resulting in the Free Worlds League and [[Draconis Combine]] having the largest number of ''Spiders'' in active service.<ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/>
 +
 
 +
The recovery of [[lostech|lost Star League technology]] inspired Nimakachi to update the ''Spider'' with new upgrades, resulting in the improved SDR-7M and the derivative ''[[Venom]]''.  While the Free Worlds League did not express much interest in these 'Mechs, Nimakachi found ready buyers among the other Great Houses.  In particular the Draconis Combine had lost a large number of light 'Mechs during the [[Clan Invasion]] and bought up local- and foreign-made ''Spiders'' to replenish their ranks.  The [[Word of Blake]] also expressed an interest in these ''Spiders'' and bought a number to outfit their [[Word of Blake Militia|military]]. These ''Spiders'' were used as part of [[Operation Odysseus|the Blakist conquest of Terra]] and were later gifted to the [[Protectorate Militia]], where they fought in the [[Jihad]].<ref name=TRO3050u>''Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade'', p. 20-21</ref>
  
 
==Weapons and Equipment==
 
==Weapons and Equipment==
The ''Spider'' carries a very light armament of two Aberdovey Mk III [[Medium Lasers]]. The lasers are marginally effective against other [['Mechs]] and hard targets but are more effective against soft targets, such as ammunition crates and command posts.<ref name=TRO3039-107/>
+
The ''Spider'' carries a very light armament of two Aberdovey Mk III [[Medium Lasers]] mounted in it's center torso next to the [[fusion engine]]. While more expensive than the common Martell lasers mounted on other 'Mechs they are of superior quality and require very little maintenance. Waste heat generated by the lasers are handled by the standard number of ten [[heat sinks]].  Three and a half tons of armor provide some measure of protection, although most ''Spider'' pilots agree that speed is the best defense.  The unique armor alignment on the front of the ''Spider'' is what gave the 'Mech it's name.  This spiderweb pattern is further emphasized by a bright red fiberglass sealant in the seams between armor plates.<ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/>
 +
 
 +
The ''Spider'' carries a grand total of eight [[jump jets]], four each in either leg, giving it an incredible jumping distance of 240 meters.  Cutting-edge components, the jump jets can pivot the 'Mech in mid-flight while still reaching it's original landing point thanks to advanced computer tracking.  This ability for the ''Spider'' to "twitch" in the air gives it greater protection as even the most advanced targeting computers can have a hard time acquiring a lock.<ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/>
 +
 
 +
The O/P communications system and targeting-tracking system are fully integrated in the ''Spider'', meaning both verbal communications and sensor readings can be transmitted back to headquarters.  This advanced computer set-up even includes an entertainment system for those long, lonely nights on recon duty.  It also has a serious drawback, in that the system combined with the head's armor layout leaves no space for a proper ejection system: the pilot must manually reach the lower hatch on their own in order to exit the 'Mech.  Many ''Spider'' pilots therefore practice quickly exiting the 'Mech during their downtime, especially those variants which carry vulnerable ammunition.<ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/>
  
 
==Variants==
 
==Variants==
*;SDR-5D : The -5D ''Spider'' is also geared towards anti-infantry work. This is done by removing one of the [[Medium Laser]]s and replacing it with a single arm-mounted [[Flamer]]. It was introduced in [[2853]].<ref name=SDR5D>[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/3008/spider-sdr-5d Master Unit List: Spider SDR-5D]</ref> BV (1.0) = 412, BV (2.0) = 524<ref name=SDR5D/><ref>''Record Sheets: 3039'', p. 76</ref>
+
*;SDR-5D : The 5D ''Spider'' is one of two official variants originally developed by Newhart.  Geared towards anti-infantry work, it removes one of the medium lasers and replaces it with a single [[Flamer]] in the right arm. It was introduced in [[2853]] and, after the Star League fell, was primarily used by the [[Federated Suns]].  The variant was normally used by militia units since others saw it's mission of hunting infantry a waste of a good 'Mech.<ref name=SDR5D>[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/3008/spider-sdr-5d Master Unit List: Spider SDR-5D]</ref><ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/> BV (1.0) = 412, BV (2.0) = 524<ref name=SDR5D/><ref>''Record Sheets: 3039'', p. 76</ref>
  
*;SDR-5K : The -5K ''Spider'' removes one of the [[Medium Laser]]s and replaces it with two arm mounted [[Machine Gun]]s for anti-infantry use. To make room for its Machine Gun ammunition the 'Mech sacrifices 60 meters of its jump capability. <ref name=SBSaD>''Starterbook: Sword and Dragon'', p. 85, "SDR-5K ''Spider''"</ref> BV (1.0) = 433, BV (2.0) = 503<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039'', p. 77</ref>
+
*;SDR-5K : The 5K ''Spider'' is one of two official variants originally developed by Newhart.  Also geared towards anti-infantry work, it removes one of the medium lasers and replaces it with two arm mounted [[Machine Gun]]s fed by one ton of ammo stored in the center torso. To make room for its machine gun ammunition the 'Mech sacrifices 60 meters of its jump capability by removing two jump jets.  First introduced in [[2850]] it was primarily used by the Draconis Combine during the Succession Wars.  The variant was normally used by militia units since others saw it's mission of hunting infantry a waste of a good 'Mech.<ref name=SBSaD>''Starterbook: Sword and Dragon'', p. 85, "SDR-5K ''Spider''"</ref><ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/> BV (1.0) = 433, BV (2.0) = 503<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039'', p. 77</ref>
  
*;SDR-7K : The -7K is an upgrade of the base design and uses a [[Light Fusion Engine]] in place of the standard model. It carries two [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s and is built using an [[Endo Steel]] structure and [[Ferro-Fibrous]] armor. BV (1.0) = 688<ref name=MUL151>''Master Unit List: Battle Values'', p. 151</ref>
+
*;SDR-7K : The 7K is an upgrade of the base design, introduced by Nimakachi in [[3067]] based on the success of other revitalized classic designs. It's built using an [[Endo Steel]] structure and five and a half tons of [[Ferro-Fibrous]] armor, a [[Light Fusion Engine]] in place of the standard model, and carries two [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s.  Perhaps most critically, Nimakachi was able to finally install an ejection system in the 7K.<ref name=TRO3050u/> BV (1.0) = 688<ref name=MUL151>''Master Unit List: Battle Values'', p. 151</ref>
  
*;SDR-7Kr : This [[Jihad]] refit removes a pulse laser and mounts an [[Experimental Technology|experimental]] [[Angel ECM Suite]] in its place. <ref name=TRO3085-64>''Technical Readout: 3085", p. 64, "SDR-8R" ''Spider''</ref> <ref name=TRO-3085-190>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 190</ref> BV (2.0) = 775<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged - The Cutting Edge'', p. 92</ref>
+
*;SDR-7Kr : This [[Jihad]] refit, first spotted in [[3074]], removes a pulse laser and mounts an [[Experimental Technology|experimental]] [[Angel ECM Suite]] in its place. <ref name=TRO3085-64>''Technical Readout: 3085", p. 64, "SDR-8R" ''Spider''</ref> <ref name=TRO-3085-190>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 190</ref> BV (2.0) = 775<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged - The Cutting Edge'', p. 92</ref>
  
*;SDR-7K2 : the -7K2 scout-hunter is built using an [[Endo Steel]] structure and [[Ferro-Fibrous]] armorThe jump capability is only 210 meters, but it now carries an [[ER Large Laser]]. BV (1.0) = 884<ref name=MUL151/>
+
*;SDR-7K2 : The 7K2 scout-hunter is a variant of the 7K introduced in [[3068]] by NimakachiIts jump capability is only 210 meters and it's armoring reduced to five tons, but it now carries a Diverse Optics Sunbeam [[ER Large Laser]]. BV (1.0) = 884<ref name=MUL151/>
  
*;SDR-7KC : The -7KC drops the 7K's [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s and mounts a [[Light PPC]] and a [[C3 Slave Unit]].<ref name=MUL151/>
+
*;SDR-7KC : Built in 3074 after the destruction of Nimakachi's Tematagi factory, the 7KC drops the 7K's medium pulse lasers and mounts a [[Light PPC]] and a [[C3 Slave Unit]].<ref name=MUL151/>
  
*;SDR-7M : The -7M upgrades the ''Spider'' with [[Star League]] technology, including upgrading the internal structure to an [[Endo Steel]] version and the armor to [[Ferro-Fibrous]]. The saved weight is used to upgrade the standard [[Medium Laser]]s to [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s. BV (1.0) = 492, BV (2.0) = 621<ref>''Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade'', p. 21</ref>
+
*;SDR-7M : The 7M was Nimakachi's upgrade of the venerable ''Spider'' with recovered Star League technology.  Released in [[3051]] it uses a Crucis-II Delux Endo Steel chassis and three tons of Kallon FWL Special ferro-fibrous armor, freeing up weight to replace the two medium lasers with two Tronel XII medium pulse lasers. Many of the components were also replaced with proprietary technology, including Rawlings 75 jump jets, an [[Omicron 4002 Networking Channel]], and a [[TRSS Eagle Eye]] targeting system.  One thing they could not do however was include an ejection system for the pilot. BV (1.0) = 492, BV (2.0) = 621<ref name=TRO3050u/>
  
*;SDR-8K : A post-Jihad variant developed by the Combine, the SDR-8K uses a [[Compact Gyro]] and a 240 [[XL Fusion Engine]] to increase its group speed while allowing it to carry four tons of Ferro-Fibrous armor, the extra weight left being used to swap the lasers of the stock ''Spider'' for a single torso mounted [[PPC Capacitor]]-enhanced [[Snub-Nose PPC]].<ref name=TRO3085-64/> BV (2.0) = 1,007<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged - The Cutting Edge'', p. 93</ref>
+
*;SDR-8K : A post-Jihad variant developed by the Combine in [[3084]], the SDR-8K uses a [[Compact Gyro]] and a 240 [[XL Fusion Engine]] to maintain its ground speed while allowing it to carry four tons of Ferro-Fibrous armor, the extra weight left being used to swap the lasers of the stock ''Spider'' for a single torso mounted [[PPC Capacitor]]-enhanced [[Snub-Nose PPC]].<ref name=TRO3085-64/> BV (2.0) = 1,007<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged - The Cutting Edge'', p. 93</ref>
  
*;SDR-8M : The -8M is a simple upgrade of the 7M, by the [[FWLM]], replacing the single [[heat sink]]s with [[double heat sink|double strength]] versions. Otherwise, both variants are completely identical. BV (1.0) = 588<ref>''Record Sheets: Upgrades'', p. 50</ref>
+
*;SDR-8M : The 8M is a simple upgrade of the 7M developed by the [[FWLM]] in [[3060]], replacing the single heat sinks with [[double heat sink|double strength]] versions. Otherwise, both variants are completely identical. BV (1.0) = 588<ref>''Record Sheets: Upgrades'', p. 50</ref>
  
*;SDR-8R : A post-Jihad variant produced by Krupp Armament Works for the [[Republic of the Sphere]], the production model -8R was based on the prototype SDR-8X that used during the liberation of [[Terra]]. Built on an Endo Steel chassis and powered by a smaller 210 Light Fusion Engine - while its ground speed was reduced, the SDR-8R's ten [[Pitban LFT-20X]] [[Improved Jump Jet]]s gave it amazing maneuverability. Carrying ten double heat sinks allowed the -8R to fire its twin [[Diverse Optics]] ER Medium Lasers and jump without fear of overheating. Boasting a very different look, the redesigned 8R was also notable for being the first ''Spider'' to include an ejection system. <ref name=TRO3085-64/> BV (2.0) = 694<ref name=TRO3085-65>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 65, "SDR-8R" ''Spider''</ref>
+
*;SDR-8R : A post-Jihad variant produced by Krupp Armament Works for the [[Republic of the Sphere]] in 3084, the production model 8R was based on the prototype SDR-8X that used during the liberation of [[Terra]]. Built on an Endo Steel chassis and powered by a smaller 210 Light Fusion Engine - while its ground speed was reduced, the SDR-8R's ten [[Pitban LFT-20X]] [[Improved Jump Jet]]s gave it amazing maneuverability. Carrying ten double heat sinks allowed the 8R to fire its twin [[Diverse Optics]] [[ER Medium Laser]]s and jump without fear of overheating. Boasting a very different look, the redesigned 8R was also notable for being one of the first ''Spiders'' to include an ejection system. <ref name=TRO3085-64/> BV (2.0) = 694<ref name=TRO3085-65>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 65, "SDR-8R" ''Spider''</ref>
  
*;SDR-8X : An experimental prototype that saw service with [[Devlin Stone]]'s Coalition during the Jihad, the SDR-8X was clad in nearly double the armor of the later -8R and mounted an [[Experimental Technology|experimental]] Inner Sphere technology [[Partial Wing]].<ref name=TRO3085-64/> BV (2.0) = 765<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged - The Cutting Edge'', p. 95</ref>
+
*;SDR-8X : An experimental prototype that saw service in [[3078]] with [[Devlin Stone]]'s Coalition during the Jihad, the SDR-8X was clad in nearly double the armor of the later 8R and mounted an [[Experimental Technology|experimental]] Inner Sphere technology [[Partial Wing]].<ref name=TRO3085-64/> BV (2.0) = 765<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged - The Cutting Edge'', p. 95</ref>
  
*;SDR-8Xr : This version of the ''Spider'' was a field refit of the -8X. The medium pulse lasers are removed and replaced by five [[ER Small Laser]]s. For close-in combat, this ''Spider'' carries a [[Sword]]. It retains the Partial Wing. BV (2.0) = 754<ref>''Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades'', p. 89</ref>
+
*;SDR-8Xr : This version of the ''Spider'' was a field refit of the 8X. The medium pulse lasers are removed and replaced by five [[ER Small Laser]]s. For close-in combat, this ''Spider'' carries a [[Sword]]. It retains the Partial Wing. BV (2.0) = 754<ref>''Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades'', p. 89</ref>
  
 
*;SDR-10K : This variant removes the standard weaponry and replaces it with a single [[Large Re-engineered Laser]]. It's protected by [[Ballistic-Reinforced Armor]]. BV (2.0) = 770<ref>''Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades'', p. 88</ref>
 
*;SDR-10K : This variant removes the standard weaponry and replaces it with a single [[Large Re-engineered Laser]]. It's protected by [[Ballistic-Reinforced Armor]]. BV (2.0) = 770<ref>''Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades'', p. 88</ref>
  
*;SDR-C : This [[Draconis Combine]] variant based on the -7M swaps out one of the pulse lasers for a standard medium and a [[C3 Slave Unit]]. BV (2.0) = 616<ref name=MUL151/>
+
*;SDR-C : This Draconis Combine variant, introduced in [[3054]] and based on the 7M, swaps out one of the pulse lasers for a standard medium and a [[C3 Slave Unit]]. BV (2.0) = 616<ref name=MUL151/>
  
 
==Related BattleMechs==
 
==Related BattleMechs==

Revision as of 17:37, 31 May 2014

Spider
Spider
Production information
Manufacturer Newhart Interstellar Industries Limited
Nimakachi Fusion Products Limited
Krupp Armament Works
Production Year 2650[1][2]
Model SDR-5V
Class Light
Cost 2,984,540 C-bills
Technical specifications
Mass 30 tons
Chassis Newhart 1200
Armor Durallex Light
Engine Pitban 240
Communications System O/P 500A
Targeting Tracking System O/P TA 1240
Heat Sinks 10
Speed 129.6 km/h
Jump Jets Pitban LFT-10
Armament
BV (1.0) 514
BV (2.0) 622[2]


Description

The Spider was the first BattleMech produced by Newhart Industries and designed as a light reconnaissance and attack 'Mech to be used by Star League Defense Force Special Operations, such as the Blackhearts. Beyond exceeding all of the SLDF's minimum requirements Newhart had actually designed the Spider before receiving the Star League's request for proposals and were ready to begin production immediately, factors which helped the company win the contract very quickly. In terms of maneuverability the Spider has a ground speed comparable to a Locust and can out-jump either the vaunted Wasp or Stinger light 'Mechs. Built with top-of-the-line reliable parts, sophisticated reconnaissance equipment and an energy weapon payload which allowed for extended operations without resupply, the Spider was a great success. While not produced in large numbers it could be rapidly manufactured and so served up through to the end of the Star League.[1][2]

Newhart's Spider factory on New Earth was destroyed in 2776 as part of the Amaris Civil War and very few Spiders ended up in the hands of the Successor States when the Star League dissolved. As their numbers began to dwindle during the Succession Wars entire offensive operations were conducted simply to secure spare parts for these 'Mechs. So rare was the Spider that Wolf's Dragoons were notable for having large numbers of them, including an entire lance of just Spiders. This trend towards extinction was finally reversed when the Free Worlds League was able to secure the schematics for the Spider. In a deal with Nimakachi Fusion Products Limited, the company was given exclusive control of the 'Mech's technical specifications in exchange for building them for the Free Worlds League. Nimakachi began building new Spiders from their factory on Tematagi and later expanded their facilities on Lapida II to produce them as well, resulting in the Free Worlds League and Draconis Combine having the largest number of Spiders in active service.[1][2]

The recovery of lost Star League technology inspired Nimakachi to update the Spider with new upgrades, resulting in the improved SDR-7M and the derivative Venom. While the Free Worlds League did not express much interest in these 'Mechs, Nimakachi found ready buyers among the other Great Houses. In particular the Draconis Combine had lost a large number of light 'Mechs during the Clan Invasion and bought up local- and foreign-made Spiders to replenish their ranks. The Word of Blake also expressed an interest in these Spiders and bought a number to outfit their military. These Spiders were used as part of the Blakist conquest of Terra and were later gifted to the Protectorate Militia, where they fought in the Jihad.[3]

Weapons and Equipment

The Spider carries a very light armament of two Aberdovey Mk III Medium Lasers mounted in it's center torso next to the fusion engine. While more expensive than the common Martell lasers mounted on other 'Mechs they are of superior quality and require very little maintenance. Waste heat generated by the lasers are handled by the standard number of ten heat sinks. Three and a half tons of armor provide some measure of protection, although most Spider pilots agree that speed is the best defense. The unique armor alignment on the front of the Spider is what gave the 'Mech it's name. This spiderweb pattern is further emphasized by a bright red fiberglass sealant in the seams between armor plates.[1][2]

The Spider carries a grand total of eight jump jets, four each in either leg, giving it an incredible jumping distance of 240 meters. Cutting-edge components, the jump jets can pivot the 'Mech in mid-flight while still reaching it's original landing point thanks to advanced computer tracking. This ability for the Spider to "twitch" in the air gives it greater protection as even the most advanced targeting computers can have a hard time acquiring a lock.[1][2]

The O/P communications system and targeting-tracking system are fully integrated in the Spider, meaning both verbal communications and sensor readings can be transmitted back to headquarters. This advanced computer set-up even includes an entertainment system for those long, lonely nights on recon duty. It also has a serious drawback, in that the system combined with the head's armor layout leaves no space for a proper ejection system: the pilot must manually reach the lower hatch on their own in order to exit the 'Mech. Many Spider pilots therefore practice quickly exiting the 'Mech during their downtime, especially those variants which carry vulnerable ammunition.[1][2]

Variants

  • SDR-5D 
    The 5D Spider is one of two official variants originally developed by Newhart. Geared towards anti-infantry work, it removes one of the medium lasers and replaces it with a single Flamer in the right arm. It was introduced in 2853 and, after the Star League fell, was primarily used by the Federated Suns. The variant was normally used by militia units since others saw it's mission of hunting infantry a waste of a good 'Mech.[4][1][2] BV (1.0) = 412, BV (2.0) = 524[4][5]
  • SDR-5K 
    The 5K Spider is one of two official variants originally developed by Newhart. Also geared towards anti-infantry work, it removes one of the medium lasers and replaces it with two arm mounted Machine Guns fed by one ton of ammo stored in the center torso. To make room for its machine gun ammunition the 'Mech sacrifices 60 meters of its jump capability by removing two jump jets. First introduced in 2850 it was primarily used by the Draconis Combine during the Succession Wars. The variant was normally used by militia units since others saw it's mission of hunting infantry a waste of a good 'Mech.[6][1][2] BV (1.0) = 433, BV (2.0) = 503[7]
  • SDR-7K 
    The 7K is an upgrade of the base design, introduced by Nimakachi in 3067 based on the success of other revitalized classic designs. It's built using an Endo Steel structure and five and a half tons of Ferro-Fibrous armor, a Light Fusion Engine in place of the standard model, and carries two Medium Pulse Lasers. Perhaps most critically, Nimakachi was able to finally install an ejection system in the 7K.[3] BV (1.0) = 688[8]
  • SDR-7K2 
    The 7K2 scout-hunter is a variant of the 7K introduced in 3068 by Nimakachi. Its jump capability is only 210 meters and it's armoring reduced to five tons, but it now carries a Diverse Optics Sunbeam ER Large Laser. BV (1.0) = 884[8]
  • SDR-7KC 
    Built in 3074 after the destruction of Nimakachi's Tematagi factory, the 7KC drops the 7K's medium pulse lasers and mounts a Light PPC and a C3 Slave Unit.[8]
  • SDR-7M 
    The 7M was Nimakachi's upgrade of the venerable Spider with recovered Star League technology. Released in 3051 it uses a Crucis-II Delux Endo Steel chassis and three tons of Kallon FWL Special ferro-fibrous armor, freeing up weight to replace the two medium lasers with two Tronel XII medium pulse lasers. Many of the components were also replaced with proprietary technology, including Rawlings 75 jump jets, an Omicron 4002 Networking Channel, and a TRSS Eagle Eye targeting system. One thing they could not do however was include an ejection system for the pilot. BV (1.0) = 492, BV (2.0) = 621[3]
  • SDR-8K 
    A post-Jihad variant developed by the Combine in 3084, the SDR-8K uses a Compact Gyro and a 240 XL Fusion Engine to maintain its ground speed while allowing it to carry four tons of Ferro-Fibrous armor, the extra weight left being used to swap the lasers of the stock Spider for a single torso mounted PPC Capacitor-enhanced Snub-Nose PPC.[9] BV (2.0) = 1,007[12]
  • SDR-8M 
    The 8M is a simple upgrade of the 7M developed by the FWLM in 3060, replacing the single heat sinks with double strength versions. Otherwise, both variants are completely identical. BV (1.0) = 588[13]
  • SDR-8R 
    A post-Jihad variant produced by Krupp Armament Works for the Republic of the Sphere in 3084, the production model 8R was based on the prototype SDR-8X that used during the liberation of Terra. Built on an Endo Steel chassis and powered by a smaller 210 Light Fusion Engine - while its ground speed was reduced, the SDR-8R's ten Pitban LFT-20X Improved Jump Jets gave it amazing maneuverability. Carrying ten double heat sinks allowed the 8R to fire its twin Diverse Optics ER Medium Lasers and jump without fear of overheating. Boasting a very different look, the redesigned 8R was also notable for being one of the first Spiders to include an ejection system. [9] BV (2.0) = 694[14]
  • SDR-8X 
    An experimental prototype that saw service in 3078 with Devlin Stone's Coalition during the Jihad, the SDR-8X was clad in nearly double the armor of the later 8R and mounted an experimental Inner Sphere technology Partial Wing.[9] BV (2.0) = 765[15]
  • SDR-8Xr 
    This version of the Spider was a field refit of the 8X. The medium pulse lasers are removed and replaced by five ER Small Lasers. For close-in combat, this Spider carries a Sword. It retains the Partial Wing. BV (2.0) = 754[16]
  • SDR-C 
    This Draconis Combine variant, introduced in 3054 and based on the 7M, swaps out one of the pulse lasers for a standard medium and a C3 Slave Unit. BV (2.0) = 616[8]

Related BattleMechs

  • Venom - While stepping up production of the Spider to meet increasing demand during the Clan Invasion, Nimakachi also introduced a new slightly heavier, uprated version of that venerable 'Mech called the Venom.


Gallery

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 Technical Readout: 3025 Revised, p. 20-21
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 Technical Readout: 3039, p. 106-107
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade, p. 20-21
  4. 4.0 4.1 Master Unit List: Spider SDR-5D
  5. Record Sheets: 3039, p. 76
  6. Starterbook: Sword and Dragon, p. 85, "SDR-5K Spider"
  7. Record Sheets: 3039, p. 77
  8. 8.0 8.1 8.2 8.3 Master Unit List: Battle Values, p. 151
  9. 9.0 9.1 9.2 9.3 Technical Readout: 3085", p. 64, "SDR-8R" Spider
  10. Technical Readout: 3085, p. 190
  11. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged - The Cutting Edge, p. 92
  12. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged - The Cutting Edge, p. 93
  13. Record Sheets: Upgrades, p. 50
  14. Technical Readout: 3085, p. 65, "SDR-8R" Spider
  15. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged - The Cutting Edge, p. 95
  16. Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades, p. 89
  17. Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades, p. 88

Bibliography