Hoplite HOP-4B

         A Star League design long thought lost, the Hoplite has reappeared in the ranks of Wolf’s Dragoons.   No one has yet discovered where the mercenaries got the BattleMech, but it seems likely that the Dragoons simply found some mothballed on a forgotten Periphery world.   Most of the Hoplites fielded have an autocannon and a small LRM launcher, but several have been seen with a PPC and a larger missile launcher.   The PPC variant is much more efficient than the autocannon design, requiring less ammunition and capable of delivering more firepower to the target.   With plenty of armor and efficient heat dissipation, this PPC-armed Hoplite has proved that it can stay on the battlefield for long periods, delivering fire support.   With no short-range weapons and arms nearly incapable of physical attacks, however, the Hoplite can be vulnerable up close, and is often paired with another ‘Mech such as the Enforcer to help protect it.