Difference between revisions of "Whitworth"
Sarna News
m (tech base and mech type) |
m (→Bibliography) |
||
| (35 intermediate revisions by 13 users not shown) | |||
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
{{InfoBoxBattleMech | {{InfoBoxBattleMech | ||
| − | |image= | + | |image = Whitworth RGilClan v30.jpg |
| − | |name=Whitworth | + | |name = ''Whitworth'' |
| − | |manufacturer=[[Whitworth Company]]<ref name= | + | |manufacturer= |
| − | |model=WTH-1 | + | [[Spillman Provincial Refit Facility]] |
| + | ---- | ||
| + | [[Whitworth Company]]<ref name=TRSWp66f>''Technical Readout: Succession Wars'', pp. 66–67: "WHT-1 Whitworth"</ref> <!-- reprinted from TRO:3039 --> | ||
| + | ---- | ||
| + | [[Whitworth Specialty Manufacturing]] | ||
| + | |model=WTH-1<ref name=TRSWp66f /> | ||
|production year=2610 | |production year=2610 | ||
| − | |year reference=<ref name=TRO3039/> | + | |year reference= <ref name=TRO3039>''Technical Readout: 3039'', pp. 126–127</ref> |
|cost = 2,912,933 C-bills | |cost = 2,912,933 C-bills | ||
|Tech Base=Inner Sphere | |Tech Base=Inner Sphere | ||
|mech type=BattleMech | |mech type=BattleMech | ||
|mass=40 | |mass=40 | ||
| − | |chassis=[[Whitworth Type I]]<ref name= | + | |chassis=[[Whitworth Type I]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp66f /> --> |
| − | |armor=[[Durallex Light]]<ref name= | + | |armor=[[Durallex Light]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp66f /> --> |
| − | |engine=[[LTV 160]]<ref name= | + | |engine=[[LTV 160]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp66f /> --> |
| − | |speed=64 | + | |speed=64 <!-- <ref name=TRSWp66f /> --> |
| − | |jumpjets=[[Whitworth Jetlift]]<ref name= | + | |jumpjets=[[Whitworth Jetlift]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp66f /> --> |
| − | |comsys=[[Garret T14]]<ref name= | + | |comsys=[[Garret T14]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp66f /> --> |
| − | |T&T=[[Garret D2j]]<ref name= | + | |T&T=[[Garret D2j]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp66f /> --> |
| − | |heat sinks=10<ref name= | + | |heat sinks=10 [[Heat Sink|single]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp66f /> --> |
|armament= | |armament= | ||
| − | *2x [[LRM-10]] | + | * 2x [[LRM-10]] |
| − | *3x [[ | + | * 3x [[medium laser]] |
| − | |BV (1.0)= 771 | + | |BV (1.0) = 771 |
| − | |BV (2.0)= 982<ref name=TRO3039/> | + | |BV (2.0) = 982<ref name=TRSWp66f /><ref name=TRO3039/> |
}} | }} | ||
==Description== | ==Description== | ||
| − | The '''''Whitworth''''' is something of an ugly duckling, known among both critics and fans as the "Tin Woodsman." It was originally produced in [[Introduction Year::2610]] as a [[BattleMech]] that was meant to fill the weight gap between the lighter ''[[Wasp]]'' and the heavier ''[[Phoenix Hawk]]'' 'Mechs. The ''Whitworth'', though, is slower than either of these designs by over 30 km/h and plagued with a faulty actuator system in its hips and legs which could cause the legs to tear loose during strenuous maneuvers. Replacing the actuators would require a complete reworking of the lower half of the torso and leg assembly. However, the ''Whitworth'' carried eight tons of armor, utilized four reliable Whitworth Jetlift [[jump jets]] split between | + | The '''''Whitworth''''' is something of an ugly duckling, known among both critics and fans as the "Tin Woodsman." It was originally produced in [[Introduction Year::2610]] as a [[BattleMech]] that was meant to fill the weight gap between the lighter ''[[Wasp]]'' and the heavier ''[[Phoenix Hawk]]'' 'Mechs. The ''Whitworth'', though, is slower than either of these designs by over 30 km/h and plagued with a faulty actuator system in its hips and legs which could cause the legs to tear loose during strenuous maneuvers. Replacing the actuators would require a complete reworking of the lower half of the torso and leg assembly. However, the ''Whitworth'' carried eight tons of armor, utilized four reliable Whitworth Jetlift [[jump jets]] split between the legs for improved mobility, and featured excellent long-range firepower. The result was a 'Mech which could stand up in combat to another 'Mech of its equivalent mass and less.<ref name=TRO3025r>''Technical Readout: 3025 Revised'', pp. 44–45</ref><ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3050u>''Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade'', pp. 44–45</ref> |
| − | The original WTH-1S ''Whitworth'' model saw combat in the [[Age of War]], however since it was armed with [[Harpoon-6]] [[SRM]]s, many were lost when their [[MechWarrior (pilot)|pilots]] rushed into close-range combat to effectively use them. The ''Whitworth'''s lack of hand actuators, low speed curve, poor armor distribution and less-than-effective weapon loadout doomed them to the scrap pile. At the insistence of the [[Star League]], the Whitworth Company replaced these weapons with [[LRM]]s in [[2689]] and the WTH-1 would serve in the [[Star League Defense Force]] as an able if mediocre scout and light strike platform. ''Whitworths'' often took part in reconnaissance-in-force missions and raids against well-defended areas, often alongside ''[[Wolverine]]s'' and ''[[Phoenix Hawk]]s'', or provided fire support for heavy attack forces with ''[[Rifleman]]s'' and ''[[Warhammer]]s''.<ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3050u/> | + | The original WTH-1S ''Whitworth'' model saw combat in the [[Age of War]], however since it was armed with [[Harpoon-6]] [[SRM]]s, many were lost when their [[MechWarrior (pilot)|pilots]] rushed into close-range combat to effectively use them. The ''Whitworth''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s lack of hand actuators, low speed curve, poor armor distribution and less-than-effective weapon loadout doomed them to the scrap pile. At the insistence of the [[Star League]], the Whitworth Company replaced these weapons with [[LRM]]s in [[2689]] and the WTH-1 would serve in the [[Star League Defense Force]] as an able if mediocre scout and light strike platform. ''Whitworths'' often took part in reconnaissance-in-force missions and raids against well-defended areas, often alongside ''[[Wolverine]]s'' and ''[[Phoenix Hawk]]s'', or provided fire support for heavy attack forces with ''[[Rifleman]]s'' and ''[[Warhammer]]s''.<ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3050u/> |
| − | Besides the SLDF, the [[Rim Worlds Republic Military]] also fielded the ''Whitworth'', where they were used to horrifying effect during the [[Amaris Civil War]] to burn down whole cities with [[inferno]] missiles. Since most served in heavy combat zones, hundreds of ''Whitworths'' were lost during that conflict and the survivors were quickly recruited by the [[Great Houses]] in the lead-up to the [[Succession Wars (History)|Succession Wars]]. They provided much-needed fire support for recon and strike [[lance]]s during those terrible conflicts, however since the destruction of the Whitworth Company's [[Dieron]] complex during the civil war, there was no source of replacement parts and machines, so the 'Mechs were used until they could no longer be repaired and then salvaged for their actuator and structural mounts. No attempt was made to restart the line since no one was willing to reproduce what many considered a poorly | + | Besides the SLDF, the [[Rim Worlds Republic Military]] also fielded the ''Whitworth'', where they were used to horrifying effect during the [[Amaris Civil War]] to burn down whole cities with [[Inferno (Missile)|inferno]] missiles. Since most served in heavy combat zones, hundreds of ''Whitworths'' were lost during that conflict and the survivors were quickly recruited by the [[Great Houses]] in the lead-up to the [[Succession Wars (History)|Succession Wars]]. They provided much-needed fire support for recon and strike [[lance]]s during those terrible conflicts, however since the destruction of the Whitworth Company's [[Dieron]] complex during the civil war, there was no source of replacement parts and machines, so the 'Mechs were used until they could no longer be repaired and then salvaged for their actuator and structural mounts. No attempt was made to restart the line since no one was willing to reproduce what many considered a poorly designed 'Mech; indeed many [[Federated Suns]] and [[Draconis Combine]] pilots gave their machines the unflattering nickname "Worthless."<ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3050u/> |
| − | By the end of the Succession War era, less than three hundred ''Whitworths'' were still operational, many in the hands of MechWarrior families passed down over generations, and its end appeared in sight. The situation changed slightly in [[3035]] when the [[Whitworth Specialty Manufacturing]] company was incorporated on [[Benjamin]] and began producing spare parts exclusively for the Combine's ''Whitworth'' inventory, supposedly as part of a rumored deal struck between [[Theodore Kurita]] and [[ComStar]] the year before. The [[Clan Invasion]] inspired a field refit which incorporated an [[Artemis IV FCS|Artemis Fire Control System]] to improve the ''Whitworth'''s artillery capability, but by [[3060]] most of these 'Mechs had been decommissioned, sold on the salvage market to cost-conscious [[mercenary]] units, pirates, and [[Periphery]] nations like the [[Taurian Concordat]] and [[Outworlds Alliance]]. The destruction inflicted by the [[Jihad]] forced both the Suns and Combine to update what ''Whitworth''s they still fielded with patchwork upgrades to combat the [[Blakist]]s' [[C3i]] technology.<ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3050u/> | + | By the end of the Succession War era, less than three hundred ''Whitworths'' were still operational, many in the hands of MechWarrior families passed down over generations, and its end appeared in sight. The situation changed slightly in [[3035]] when the [[Whitworth Specialty Manufacturing]] company was incorporated on [[Benjamin]] and began producing spare parts exclusively for the Combine's ''Whitworth'' inventory, supposedly as part of a rumored deal struck between [[Theodore Kurita]] and [[ComStar]] the year before. The [[Clan Invasion]] inspired a field refit which incorporated an [[Artemis IV FCS|Artemis Fire Control System]] to improve the ''Whitworth''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s artillery capability, but by [[3060]] most of these 'Mechs had been decommissioned, sold on the salvage market to cost-conscious [[mercenary]] units, pirates, and [[Periphery]] nations like the [[Taurian Concordat]] and [[Outworlds Alliance]]. The destruction inflicted by the [[Jihad]] forced both the Suns and Combine to update what ''Whitworth''s they still fielded with patchwork upgrades to combat the [[Blakist]]s' [[C3i]] technology.<ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3050u/> |
==Weapons and Equipment== | ==Weapons and Equipment== | ||
| − | The ''Whitworth'' carries as its primary weapons two [[Longbow-10]] [[LRM-10|LRM launchers]] with one ton of ammo each in both right and left torsos. These missile launchers allow the ''Whitworth'' to strike an enemy at long ranges with a moderate amount of missiles. While against heavier units it is somewhat effective, when used to provide LRM support to a recon lance, the ''Whitworth'''s LRMs can deter pursuit by other light units. For secondary weapons, the ''Whitworth'' has three [[Intek]] [[ | + | The ''Whitworth'' carries as its primary weapons two [[Longbow-10]] [[LRM-10|LRM launchers]] with one ton of ammo each in both right and left torsos. These missile launchers allow the ''Whitworth'' to strike an enemy at long ranges with a moderate amount of missiles. While against heavier units it is somewhat effective, when used to provide LRM support to a recon lance, the ''Whitworth''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s LRMs can deter pursuit by other light units. For secondary weapons, the ''Whitworth'' has three [[Intek]] [[medium laser]]s, one mounted in the head and in either arm, that allow it to effectively defend itself from units of the same weight class and lighter at short ranges.<ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=IRS>''Classic BattleTech Introductory Record Sheets'', p. 10</ref> |
==Variants== | ==Variants== | ||
| − | *;WTH-0 : This incredibly rare version of the ''Whitworth'' was made exclusively for the [[Amaris Dragoons]] in [[2754]] as a terror weapon. Only twenty-four of these variants were ever built by Whitworth's Republic branch, carrying two Harpoon-6 [[SRM-6]] racks in place of the LRM-10 launchers along with fourteen heat sinks and replacing the left arm laser with a [[Flamer]]. These ''Whitworth''s were painted matte black and became infamous for razing entire cities with their [[inferno]]-loaded SRMs and flamers. BV (2.0) = 863<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 189</ref> | + | *; WTH-0 : This incredibly rare version of the ''Whitworth'' was made exclusively for the [[Amaris Dragoons]] in [[2754]] as a terror weapon. Only twenty-four of these variants were ever built by Whitworth's Republic branch, carrying two Harpoon-6 [[SRM-6]] racks in place of the LRM-10 launchers along with fourteen heat sinks and replacing the left arm laser with a [[Fleur-Static Flamer]]. These ''Whitworth''s were painted matte black and became infamous for razing entire cities with their [[Inferno (Missile)|inferno]]-loaded SRMs and flamers.<ref name=TRSWp66f /> BV (2.0) = 863<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 189</ref> |
| − | *;WTH-1H : The 1H variant is a [[Periphery]] modification of the 1S variant introduced in [[3066]]. In place of one of the | + | *; WTH-1H : The 1H variant is a [[Periphery]] modification of the 1S variant introduced in [[3066]]. In place of one of the SRM launchers, the 1H variant carries eight [[rocket launcher 10]]s, providing devastating short range striking power. This variant proved popular with the Taurian Concordat and Outworlds Alliance. BV (1.0) = 951; BV (2.0) = 993<ref name=MUL168>''Master Unit List: Battle Values'', p. 168</ref> |
| − | *;WTH-1S : The original production model of the ''Whitworth'' prior to its service in the Star League armies. The two LRM-10 missile launchers are replaced with two SRM-6 launchers and four additional heat sinks, allowing the MechWarrior better heat management capabilities. However since this loadout encourages a close combat approach for which the 'Mech is grossly ill-equipped, these were phased out and the variant remains extremely rare. BV (1.0) = 753 | + | *; WTH-1S : The original production model of the ''Whitworth'' prior to its service in the Star League armies. The two LRM-10 missile launchers are replaced with two SRM-6 launchers and four additional heat sinks, allowing the MechWarrior better heat management capabilities. However since this loadout encourages a close combat approach for which the 'Mech is grossly ill-equipped, these were phased out and the variant remains extremely rare.<ref name=TRSWp66f /> BV (1.0) = 753; BV (2.0) = 917<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039'', p. 109</ref> |
| − | *;WTH-2 : The WTH-2 ''Whitworth'' is a very basic upgrade of the original design introduced in [[3050]] in response to the Clan invasion. Two | + | *; WTH-2 : The WTH-2 ''Whitworth'' is a very basic upgrade of the original design introduced in [[3050]] in response to the Clan invasion. Two medium lasers have been removed from the 'Mech and replaced with Artemis IV fire control systems for the LRM-10 launchers making it deadlier at long ranges in exchange for short range defense capabilities. BV (1.0) = 784; BV (2.0) = 936<ref>''Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade'', p. 45</ref> |
| − | *;WTH-2A : This variant of the ''Whitworth'' introduced in [[3068]] upgrades the WTH-1S ''Whitworth'', though whether they were custom refits or production models is unknown. The chassis has been redesigned to use [[ | + | *; WTH-2A : This variant of the ''Whitworth'' introduced in [[3068]] upgrades the WTH-1S ''Whitworth'', though whether they were custom refits or production models is unknown. The chassis has been redesigned to use [[endo steel]] construction techniques and one of the medium lasers have been downgraded to a [[small laser]]. The SRM-6s were removed and the fourteen single heat sinks were upgraded to ten [[double heat sink]]s. The saved weight was used to add four [[Streak SRM-4]] launchers, a [[C3 slave unit]], and [[CASE]] to protect the 'Mech from ammunition explosions. BV (1.0) = 1,037;<ref>''Record Sheets: Upgrades'', p. 71</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,055<ref name=MUL168/> |
| − | *;WTH-3 : A variant produced in [[3069]], the WTH-3 is mostly used with [[Capellan March]] forces. Also utilizing an Endo Steel chassis, the -3 mounts four [[LRM-5]]s and a C3 | + | *; WTH-3 : A variant produced in [[3069]], the WTH-3 is mostly used with [[Capellan March]] forces. Also utilizing an Endo Steel chassis, the -3 mounts four [[LRM-5]]s and a C3 slave. Four tons of ammunition allow it to utilize a variety of specialty munitions. The weight savings went into upgrading the jump jets to [[improved jump jets]] that allow the -3 to leap up to 180 meters at a time. BV (2.0) = 861<ref name=MUL168/> |
| − | *;WTH-K : [[Whitworth Specialty Manufacturing]] is responsible for upgrading the -1 ''Whitworth''s owned by the [[Draconis Combine]] and introduced this variant in [[3070]]. The -K variant also utilizes ten single | + | *; WTH-K : [[Whitworth Specialty Manufacturing]] is responsible for upgrading the -1 ''Whitworth''s owned by the [[Draconis Combine]] and introduced this variant in [[3070]]. The -K variant also utilizes ten single heat sinks, though it mounts two [[MML-7]]s, while two ammo bins allow for some flexibility. The use of MMLs allows the [[MechWarrior (pilot)|MechWarrior]] to focus on either ranged support or close-quarters combat. The inclusion of a C3 Slave allows the -K to share targeting telemetry. Five QuestStar improved jump jets enable the -K to jump up to 150 meters. BV (2.0) = 819<ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrade, Inner Sphere'', p. 99</ref> |
| + | *; WTH-2H: Manufactured by [[Marian Arms Incorporated|Marian Arms Inc.]] at the recently expanded [[Alphard (MH)|Alphard]] facility,<ref name = "RG30">''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 30'', p.12</ref> the -2H interestingly mounts two [[MRM 10]] launchers with attached [[Apollo Fire Control System]]s and two tons of ammunition<ref name = "RG30R">''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 30'', p.29</ref>. The rest of the armament is rounded out with two arm mounted [[Extended-Range Medium Laser | ER Medium Lasers]] and a single head mounted [[Medium Laser]]. The engine is a 200-class [[Fusion engine]]<ref name = "RG30R"/>. Interestingly, the [[Draconis Combine]] has negotiated a long term contract for a percentage of the production with the -2H being sent to otherwise neglected regiments or resold to Kuritan mercenaries<ref name = "RG30"/>. Though salvage has ensured the -2H has managed to spread throughout the Inner Sphere. BV(2.0) = 1,148 <ref name = "RG30R"/> | ||
===Custom Variants=== | ===Custom Variants=== | ||
| − | *;WTH-5S : This is an [[Experimental Technology|Experimental]] variant based the old WTH-2 chassis. Created by the [[Spillman Provincial Refit Facility]] of [[Acrux]] in [[3074]], a lance of these 'Mechs were being evaluated by the [[Kaumberg Archonette]] in combat in heavily forested areas. The 'Mech uses a [[ | + | *; WTH-5S : This is an [[Experimental Technology|Experimental]] variant based the old WTH-2 chassis. Created by the [[Spillman Provincial Refit Facility]] of [[Acrux]] in [[3074]], a lance of these 'Mechs were being evaluated by the [[Kaumberg Archonette]] in combat in heavily forested areas. The 'Mech uses a [[composite internal structure]], which is used to house a [[Supercharger|supercharged]] 160-rated extralight fusion engine. The 'Mech sports two Streak SRM-6 launchers, one per torso with [[CASE II]] to protect the 'Mech from each ton of ammo. The 'Mech's original medium lasers are swapped out for pair of experimental [[Medium X-Pulse Laser|medium X-Pulse lasers]]. The lasers' accuracy is improved with inclusion of an [[actuator enhancement system]] in each arm. The 'Mech is protected by eight tons of standard armor and a [[Guardian ECM suite]]. BV (2.0) = 1,320<ref>''Experimental Technical Readout: Boondocks'', pp. 3, 16: Experimental Whitworth</ref> |
| + | |||
| + | ==Design Quirks== | ||
| + | The ''Whitworth'' has the following [[Design Quirks]]:<ref>''BattleMech Manual'', p. 95: BattleMech Quirk Table - Whitworth Entry</ref> | ||
| + | * [[Rugged|Rugged (1)]] | ||
| + | * [[Weak Legs|Weak Legs]] | ||
==Gallery== | ==Gallery== | ||
<gallery> | <gallery> | ||
| − | + | 3025_Whitworth1.jpg|Original WTH-1 ''Whitworth'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3025|TRO:3025]]'' | |
| − | + | Whitworth TRO3050.png|''Whitworth'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3050|TRO:3050]]'' | |
| − | + | 3050U Whitworth.jpg|WTH-2 ''Whitworth'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade|TRO:3050 Upgrade]]'' | |
| − | + | Experimental Whitworth.jpg|Experimental WTH-5S ''Whitworth'' from ''[[Experimental Technical Readout: Boondocks|XTRO:Boondocks]]'' | |
| + | Whitworth RGilClan v30.jpg|''Whitworth'' from ''[[Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 30|RG:iClan vol. 30]]'' | ||
| + | Camomech-whitworth.png|WTH-1 ''Whitworth'' from ''[[Classic BattleTech Universe]]'' | ||
| + | BattleTech4e-Whitworth.jpg|''Whitworth'' standee from ''[[BattleTech, Fourth Edition]]'' | ||
| + | BattleTech Introductory Box Set - Whitworth.jpg|''Whitworth'' miniature from ''[[BattleTech Introductory Box Set]]'' | ||
</gallery> | </gallery> | ||
| Line 67: | Line 82: | ||
==Bibliography== | ==Bibliography== | ||
| − | *''[[ | + | <div class="desktop-3-col"> |
| − | *''[[ | + | * ''[[Classic BattleTech Introductory Record Sheets]]'' |
| − | *''[[Master Unit List: Battle Values]]'' | + | * ''[[Experimental Technical Readout: Boondocks]]'' |
| − | *''[[Record Sheets: 3039]]'' | + | * ''[[Master Unit List: Battle Values]]'' |
| − | *''[[Record Sheets: | + | * ''[[Record Sheets: 3039]]'' |
| − | *''[[Record Sheets: | + | * ''[[Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged]]'' |
| − | *''[[Record Sheets: | + | * ''[[Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrade (Inner Sphere)]]'' |
| − | *''[[Technical Readout: 3025]]'' | + | * ''[[Record Sheets: Upgrades]]'' |
| − | *''[[Technical Readout: 3025 Revised]]'' | + | * ''[[Technical Readout: 3025]]'' |
| − | *''[[Technical Readout: 3039]]'' | + | * ''[[Technical Readout: 3025 Revised]]'' |
| − | *''[[Technical Readout: 3050]]'' | + | * ''[[Technical Readout: 3039]]'' |
| − | *''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Revised]]'' | + | * ''[[Technical Readout: 3050]]'' |
| − | *''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade]]'' | + | * ''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Revised]]'' |
| − | + | * ''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade]]'' | |
| + | * ''[[Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 30]]'' | ||
| + | </div> | ||
| + | [[Category:'Mechs]] | ||
[[Category:BattleMechs]] | [[Category:BattleMechs]] | ||
[[Category:Medium BattleMechs]] | [[Category:Medium BattleMechs]] | ||
[[Category:40 ton BattleMechs]] | [[Category:40 ton BattleMechs]] | ||
| − | |||
| − | |||
[[Category:Star League BattleMechs]] | [[Category:Star League BattleMechs]] | ||
| − | |||
[[Category:C3 Slave Equipped BattleMechs]] | [[Category:C3 Slave Equipped BattleMechs]] | ||
Latest revision as of 21:32, 15 April 2024
| |
| Whitworth | |
|---|---|
| Production information | |
| Manufacturer | Spillman Provincial Refit Facility
|
| Production Year | 2610[2] |
| Model | WTH-1[1] |
| Class | Medium |
| Cost | 2,912,933 C-bills |
| Technical specifications | |
| 'Mech type | Inner Sphere BattleMech |
| Mass | 40 tons |
| Chassis | Whitworth Type I |
| Armor | Durallex Light |
| Engine | LTV 160 |
| Communications System | Garret T14 |
| Targeting Tracking System | Garret D2j |
| Heat Sinks | 10 single |
| Speed | 64 km/h |
| Jump Jets | Whitworth Jetlift |
| Armament |
|
| BV (1.0) | 771 |
| BV (2.0) | 982[1][2] |
Contents
Description[edit]
The Whitworth is something of an ugly duckling, known among both critics and fans as the "Tin Woodsman." It was originally produced in 2610 as a BattleMech that was meant to fill the weight gap between the lighter Wasp and the heavier Phoenix Hawk 'Mechs. The Whitworth, though, is slower than either of these designs by over 30 km/h and plagued with a faulty actuator system in its hips and legs which could cause the legs to tear loose during strenuous maneuvers. Replacing the actuators would require a complete reworking of the lower half of the torso and leg assembly. However, the Whitworth carried eight tons of armor, utilized four reliable Whitworth Jetlift jump jets split between the legs for improved mobility, and featured excellent long-range firepower. The result was a 'Mech which could stand up in combat to another 'Mech of its equivalent mass and less.[3][2][4]
The original WTH-1S Whitworth model saw combat in the Age of War, however since it was armed with Harpoon-6 SRMs, many were lost when their pilots rushed into close-range combat to effectively use them. The Whitworth's lack of hand actuators, low speed curve, poor armor distribution and less-than-effective weapon loadout doomed them to the scrap pile. At the insistence of the Star League, the Whitworth Company replaced these weapons with LRMs in 2689 and the WTH-1 would serve in the Star League Defense Force as an able if mediocre scout and light strike platform. Whitworths often took part in reconnaissance-in-force missions and raids against well-defended areas, often alongside Wolverines and Phoenix Hawks, or provided fire support for heavy attack forces with Riflemans and Warhammers.[3][2][4]
Besides the SLDF, the Rim Worlds Republic Military also fielded the Whitworth, where they were used to horrifying effect during the Amaris Civil War to burn down whole cities with inferno missiles. Since most served in heavy combat zones, hundreds of Whitworths were lost during that conflict and the survivors were quickly recruited by the Great Houses in the lead-up to the Succession Wars. They provided much-needed fire support for recon and strike lances during those terrible conflicts, however since the destruction of the Whitworth Company's Dieron complex during the civil war, there was no source of replacement parts and machines, so the 'Mechs were used until they could no longer be repaired and then salvaged for their actuator and structural mounts. No attempt was made to restart the line since no one was willing to reproduce what many considered a poorly designed 'Mech; indeed many Federated Suns and Draconis Combine pilots gave their machines the unflattering nickname "Worthless."[3][2][4]
By the end of the Succession War era, less than three hundred Whitworths were still operational, many in the hands of MechWarrior families passed down over generations, and its end appeared in sight. The situation changed slightly in 3035 when the Whitworth Specialty Manufacturing company was incorporated on Benjamin and began producing spare parts exclusively for the Combine's Whitworth inventory, supposedly as part of a rumored deal struck between Theodore Kurita and ComStar the year before. The Clan Invasion inspired a field refit which incorporated an Artemis Fire Control System to improve the Whitworth's artillery capability, but by 3060 most of these 'Mechs had been decommissioned, sold on the salvage market to cost-conscious mercenary units, pirates, and Periphery nations like the Taurian Concordat and Outworlds Alliance. The destruction inflicted by the Jihad forced both the Suns and Combine to update what Whitworths they still fielded with patchwork upgrades to combat the Blakists' C3i technology.[3][2][4]
Weapons and Equipment[edit]
The Whitworth carries as its primary weapons two Longbow-10 LRM launchers with one ton of ammo each in both right and left torsos. These missile launchers allow the Whitworth to strike an enemy at long ranges with a moderate amount of missiles. While against heavier units it is somewhat effective, when used to provide LRM support to a recon lance, the Whitworth's LRMs can deter pursuit by other light units. For secondary weapons, the Whitworth has three Intek medium lasers, one mounted in the head and in either arm, that allow it to effectively defend itself from units of the same weight class and lighter at short ranges.[2][5]
Variants[edit]
- WTH-0
- This incredibly rare version of the Whitworth was made exclusively for the Amaris Dragoons in 2754 as a terror weapon. Only twenty-four of these variants were ever built by Whitworth's Republic branch, carrying two Harpoon-6 SRM-6 racks in place of the LRM-10 launchers along with fourteen heat sinks and replacing the left arm laser with a Fleur-Static Flamer. These Whitworths were painted matte black and became infamous for razing entire cities with their inferno-loaded SRMs and flamers.[1] BV (2.0) = 863[6]
- WTH-1H
- The 1H variant is a Periphery modification of the 1S variant introduced in 3066. In place of one of the SRM launchers, the 1H variant carries eight rocket launcher 10s, providing devastating short range striking power. This variant proved popular with the Taurian Concordat and Outworlds Alliance. BV (1.0) = 951; BV (2.0) = 993[7]
- WTH-1S
- The original production model of the Whitworth prior to its service in the Star League armies. The two LRM-10 missile launchers are replaced with two SRM-6 launchers and four additional heat sinks, allowing the MechWarrior better heat management capabilities. However since this loadout encourages a close combat approach for which the 'Mech is grossly ill-equipped, these were phased out and the variant remains extremely rare.[1] BV (1.0) = 753; BV (2.0) = 917[8]
- WTH-2
- The WTH-2 Whitworth is a very basic upgrade of the original design introduced in 3050 in response to the Clan invasion. Two medium lasers have been removed from the 'Mech and replaced with Artemis IV fire control systems for the LRM-10 launchers making it deadlier at long ranges in exchange for short range defense capabilities. BV (1.0) = 784; BV (2.0) = 936[9]
- WTH-2A
- This variant of the Whitworth introduced in 3068 upgrades the WTH-1S Whitworth, though whether they were custom refits or production models is unknown. The chassis has been redesigned to use endo steel construction techniques and one of the medium lasers have been downgraded to a small laser. The SRM-6s were removed and the fourteen single heat sinks were upgraded to ten double heat sinks. The saved weight was used to add four Streak SRM-4 launchers, a C3 slave unit, and CASE to protect the 'Mech from ammunition explosions. BV (1.0) = 1,037;[10] BV (2.0) = 1,055[7]
- WTH-3
- A variant produced in 3069, the WTH-3 is mostly used with Capellan March forces. Also utilizing an Endo Steel chassis, the -3 mounts four LRM-5s and a C3 slave. Four tons of ammunition allow it to utilize a variety of specialty munitions. The weight savings went into upgrading the jump jets to improved jump jets that allow the -3 to leap up to 180 meters at a time. BV (2.0) = 861[7]
- WTH-K
- Whitworth Specialty Manufacturing is responsible for upgrading the -1 Whitworths owned by the Draconis Combine and introduced this variant in 3070. The -K variant also utilizes ten single heat sinks, though it mounts two MML-7s, while two ammo bins allow for some flexibility. The use of MMLs allows the MechWarrior to focus on either ranged support or close-quarters combat. The inclusion of a C3 Slave allows the -K to share targeting telemetry. Five QuestStar improved jump jets enable the -K to jump up to 150 meters. BV (2.0) = 819[11]
- WTH-2H
- Manufactured by Marian Arms Inc. at the recently expanded Alphard facility,[12] the -2H interestingly mounts two MRM 10 launchers with attached Apollo Fire Control Systems and two tons of ammunition[13]. The rest of the armament is rounded out with two arm mounted ER Medium Lasers and a single head mounted Medium Laser. The engine is a 200-class Fusion engine[13]. Interestingly, the Draconis Combine has negotiated a long term contract for a percentage of the production with the -2H being sent to otherwise neglected regiments or resold to Kuritan mercenaries[12]. Though salvage has ensured the -2H has managed to spread throughout the Inner Sphere. BV(2.0) = 1,148 [13]
Custom Variants[edit]
- WTH-5S
- This is an Experimental variant based the old WTH-2 chassis. Created by the Spillman Provincial Refit Facility of Acrux in 3074, a lance of these 'Mechs were being evaluated by the Kaumberg Archonette in combat in heavily forested areas. The 'Mech uses a composite internal structure, which is used to house a supercharged 160-rated extralight fusion engine. The 'Mech sports two Streak SRM-6 launchers, one per torso with CASE II to protect the 'Mech from each ton of ammo. The 'Mech's original medium lasers are swapped out for pair of experimental medium X-Pulse lasers. The lasers' accuracy is improved with inclusion of an actuator enhancement system in each arm. The 'Mech is protected by eight tons of standard armor and a Guardian ECM suite. BV (2.0) = 1,320[14]
Design Quirks[edit]
The Whitworth has the following Design Quirks:[15]
Gallery[edit]
Original WTH-1 Whitworth from TRO:3025
Whitworth from TRO:3050
WTH-2 Whitworth from TRO:3050 Upgrade
Experimental WTH-5S Whitworth from XTRO:Boondocks
Whitworth from RG:iClan vol. 30
WTH-1 Whitworth from Classic BattleTech Universe
Whitworth standee from BattleTech, Fourth Edition
Whitworth miniature from BattleTech Introductory Box Set
References[edit]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 Technical Readout: Succession Wars, pp. 66–67: "WHT-1 Whitworth"
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 Technical Readout: 3039, pp. 126–127
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 Technical Readout: 3025 Revised, pp. 44–45
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade, pp. 44–45
- ↑ Classic BattleTech Introductory Record Sheets, p. 10
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged, p. 189
- ↑ 7.0 7.1 7.2 Master Unit List: Battle Values, p. 168
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3039, p. 109
- ↑ Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade, p. 45
- ↑ Record Sheets: Upgrades, p. 71
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrade, Inner Sphere, p. 99
- ↑ 12.0 12.1 Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 30, p.12
- ↑ 13.0 13.1 13.2 Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 30, p.29
- ↑ Experimental Technical Readout: Boondocks, pp. 3, 16: Experimental Whitworth
- ↑ BattleMech Manual, p. 95: BattleMech Quirk Table - Whitworth Entry
Bibliography[edit]
- Classic BattleTech Introductory Record Sheets
- Experimental Technical Readout: Boondocks
- Master Unit List: Battle Values
- Record Sheets: 3039
- Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged
- Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrade (Inner Sphere)
- Record Sheets: Upgrades
- Technical Readout: 3025
- Technical Readout: 3025 Revised
- Technical Readout: 3039
- Technical Readout: 3050
- Technical Readout: 3050 Revised
- Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade
- Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 30