Inspiration and Conception
[dcs_p]When Rocky Potts met Dr. Byron Jones on the planet of Wasat in Marik space, the two began
the creation of what is now known as the Infighter 70 ton Heavy-class BattleMech. The Mech,
which is based around a prototype weapon, is especially powerful at close range combat…
Since Byron Jones was a child, he has been fascinated by the catastrophic thunderstorms of
his homeworld. Using his advanced knowledge of BattleMechs, physics, electronics and
magnetics, Byron began researching possibilities for a new BattleMech weapon. Byron created
his “ThunderClap” shortly after obtaining his masters degree in mechanical engineering.
Rocky Potts, a BattleMech engineer whose life had taken sudden changes when he lost his
arms, had always dreamed of creating his own design. In some respects, the Infighter was a
fulfillment to that dream. Though largely a product of Byron Jones’ imagination, the Infighter
was designed by Rocky to carry the prototype weapon. Rocky designed the Infighter around
the prototype weapon, particularly to safeguard its own internal structure and engine against the
ThunderClap’s shockwaves.[/dcs_p]
[dcs_p]The two’s experimental custom-designed Mech has gone through many trial stages, each
piloted by its one and only pilot, Ryan ‘Dumbluck’ Allen. Ryan has seen the Infighter project to
its final stages; he started piloting a simple chassis toting the ThunderClap for the first time, up
until the latest version that has incorporated Triple Strength Myomers among other things.[/dcs_p]
IFR-V1
[dcs_p]The Infighter Mark 1 carried exclusively short range weapons. The Mech relied heavily on its
ThunderClap and mace, which it used many times to earn a very impressive reputation. Its
backup array consisted of 3 small lasers, or 2 medium lasers. Due to the enormous energy
requirements of the ThunderClap’s magnetic housing, only 1 medium laser or 3 small lasers
could be fired in conjunction with the prototype weapon.[/dcs_p]
[dcs_img width=”590″ height=”900″ thumb=”true” framed=”black”
lightbox=”true”]
http://www.stridersstrikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Infighter-2_Shaded_72dpi.jpg
[/dcs_img]
[dcs_p]The Infighter IFR-V1 – Art by David White[/dcs_p]
IFR-V2
[dcs_p]Mark 2 equipped upgraded weaponry, with 2 extended range (ER) medium lasers and 3 ER
small lasers. Rocky worked closely with Ryan Allen, the Mech’s pilot and one of the Strider’s
Strikers primary techs, in order to upgrade its myomer assembly to the Triple Strength variant.
After many test runs, Ryan concluded the Mech’s new configuration was ready for live combat.
The Triple Strength Myomers would add to Ryan’s physical combat capabilities with a
enormously powerful mace and fiercer kick.
[/dcs_p]
IFR-V3
[dcs_p]Though the Mark 2 was ready for combat, it seemed fate would give the technicians further time
to explore the Infighter’s possible configurations. The Mech did not see action while in the Mark
2 stage, except for occasional training during which the ThunderClap was neglected. Rocky
entered a new configuration into the computer, examining the possibilities of providing the 70
ton Mech with a long range weapon. After several computer-based simulations, the Infighter
was deemed capable of carrying two new major upgrades. The Mark 3 boasted an ER large
laser, as well as increased protection at long ranges thanks to its new null signature system. Its
backup array now consists of 1 medium laser and 2 ER small lasers, which can be fired with the
ThunderClap.[/dcs_p]
[dcs_img width=”590″ height=”600″ thumb=”true” framed=”black”
lightbox=”true”]
http://www.stridersstrikers.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/INFIGHTERsktch1.jpg
[/dcs_img]
[dcs_p]The Infighter IFR-V5 Firing The ThunderClap20 – Art by Matt Plog[/dcs_p]
IFR-V5
[dcs_p]The latest version is the IFR-V5, a model in which Rocky Potts has managed to include a Null
Signature System. The Null Signature System allows increased flexibility in controlling the
Mech’s heat. The V5 is dramatically altered aesthetically as well, borrowing directly from the
Mech’s used to make its prototype chassis (the Charger and the Exterminator). This has
allowed for much easier technical work with regards to both battlefield repairs and regular
maintenance of the Mech.[/dcs_p]
[dcs_p]The IFR-V5 appears to be the ultimate physical assault machine. Its amplified speed, increased
strength, added stealth, jump-capability, and massive short range firepower are a deadly
combination against any slow combatant. The Infighter’s primary weakness will remain what it
always has been – its lack of ranged firepower for duels against maneuverable heavy Mechs.[/dcs_p]