Garuda

Description
The Garuda Heavy VTOL was designed by Clan Hell's Horses to support both VTOLs that transport battle armor and the battle armor itself. After working with Clan Wolf-in-Exile, and moving to a larger chassis than normal, the Garuda entered production in 3084. Clan Wolf-in-Exile started production shortly thereafter.

Typically the Garuda will soften up a battle armor landing zone and then remain on station to provide additional support to the ground forces. The VTOL transports that delivered the battle armor withdraw from the field. Though it has a relatively low top speed, the VTOL Jet Booster allows a Garuda to put on a burst of speed that enemy forces aren't expecting. Finally, the ECM Suite mounted in the body disrupts enemy targeting systems. Six and a half tons of Ferro-Fibrous armor protect the Garuda.

Weapons and Equipment
The Garuda uses an ER Large Laser for most of its firepower. This energy weapon, combined with the fusion power plant, eases logistics. The laser and a TAG system are mounted coaxially in a VTOL Chin Turret, which provides nearly 300 degrees of fire. To provide additional firepower, the Garuda uses a Streak LRM-15 launcher. Equipped with a ton of ammunition, this frugal system won't fire unless it has a target lock. The Streak launcher isn't mounted in the turret however, and can only fire forwards.

Variants
There are no known variants of the Garuda.

Design Quirks
The Garuda is subject of the following Design Quirks:
 * Non-Standard Parts
 * Rumble Seat
 * Searchlight