Firebee

Description
Originally designated the "Weapon-Armed 'Mech-Alpha", the first generation BattleMech produced by the Capellan Confederation in Introduction Year::2483 was widely known for its use of Inferno missiles. After eleven years of service, a second generation model began production on Boardwalk, and observers noted that this second-generation version was not a "WAM-B", but a "Fire-B" prompting the BattleMech to be re-designated as the FRB-1E Firebee.

Eventually a third generation Firebee began production on Exedor in 2524 This factory continued production until it was destroyed during the Production Ceased::First Succession War.

The Firebee has a top speed of 86 km/h, fast for a light 'Mech of its day. It was also quite maneuverable, with enough jump jets to leap 150 meters in the air. Six tons of armor provides significant protection for such a small machine.

Weapons and Equipment
The 2E Firebee mounts a Star Cutter 80cm Large Laser, giving it respectable firepower. Up close, four Maui Crossbow SRM-2 launchers can unleash eight missiles. With its two tons of ammunition for the SRM launchers, MechWarriors can use either inferno or standard missiles. Either way, the Firebee is a potent anti-vehicle platform.

Variants

 * WAM-B/FRB-1E : The original Firebee used a single LRM-5 backed up by a trio of SRM-2s. The Primitive Engine provided a top speed of 85 km/h, more than enough to engage armored vehicles and infantry, and supporting heavier units. The lack of jump jets, combined with six and a half tons of Primitive Armor, forced pilots to pay attention to the terrain to insure they could move effectively . BV (2.0) = 452


 * FRB-3E : Two Firebees leftover from the Age of War were upgraded in 3071 when Sun-Tzu Liao revealed that he had survived the WarShip bombardment of Sian. They are protected by Stealth Armor and the requisite Guardian ECM Suite. Trading on the 'Mech's name, the Large Laser is replaced with a Plasma Rifle and the SRMs gave way to a multi-missile launcher. BV (2.0) = 1,067

Related Designs

 * Yinghuochong - A 32nd century scout killer built around an updated version of the Firebee's chassis, the Yinghuochong mounts advanced recon equipment and carries as its sole weapon a fearsome Clantech ER PPC.

Design Quirks
The Firebee has the following Design Quirks:
 * Poor Life Support
 * Weak Legs

The WAM-B Firebee variant is subject to the following Design Quirks:
 * Difficult to Maintain
 * Extended Torso Twist
 * Non-Standard Parts
 * Poor Workmanship
 * Weak Legs
 * Obsolete/2524