Howler (Baboon)

Description
The Howler was first observed among Clan Jade Falcon second-line units, though it has since been proven to be much more widespread. The BattleMech the Inner Sphere dubbed the Baboon is moderately fast for a 'Mech its size, topping out at 119 km/h. Its armament is at least partially enabled by the use of an Endo Steel structure and three tons of Ferro-Fibrous armor.

Weapons and Equipment
The Howler is a potent missile boat for its size. Meant to provide fire support to light garrison Stars, the 'Mech carries three LRM-5 launchers and three tons of ammunition.

Variants

 * Howler 2 : The Howler was redesigned by Clan Steel Viper scientists to improve their light, second-line units. A smaller, Extralight Engine provides the space for four ATM 3s along with two tons of ammunition. Though the 'Mech's running speed is reduced, it uses MASC to accelerate to 130 km/h in short bursts. BV (1.0) = 634, BV (2.0) = 757


 * Howler 3 ("Devil") : Clan Snow Raven scientists refitted many captured Howler 2s with an ER PPC and a Targeting Computer, turning the 'Mech into a sniper. This variant was spotted in the Clan Jade Falcon occupied zone around 3055 by ComStar ROM agents and inaccurately reported in the 1993 Update Flyer as the TZ-1 Devil, which they initially falsely described as a 30-ton 'Mech with significantly higher speed and better armor (but no targeting computer). BV (1.0) = 1,048, BV (2.0) = 1,277

Design Quirks
The Howler has the following Design Quirk:
 * Extended Torso Twist
 * Narrow/Low-Profile
 * Searchlight