2 replies to this topic

[Firelizard]

As you all know, there is a notable disparity in the selection of ballistic weapons between the .5 ton machine guns and the 6 ton AC/2. Rather than trying to invent a new weapons system to fill this void, I propose the addition of a weapon already existent in BT canon, AND available within our current timeline: The Mech Mortar.

Per BT background, the Mech Mortars started out as a mech adaptation of tank-born mortar weapons, which fell out of style with the introduction of LRMs. With the reintroduction of AMS and ECM, Mech Mortars found a resurgence in popularity due to the fact that ECM was largely ineffective against them, and AMS was incapable of tracking the projectiles.

In MWO, the Mech Mortar could be introduced as a ballistic slot weapon that fires in rapid-fire bursts as opposed to the LRM's barrages. Per TT rules, the Mech Mortar's projectiles inflict damage similar to an SRM warhead, and as such similar damage could be applied to them in MWO, offset by their smaller burst size (1,2,4,8) compared to the LRM's (5,10,15,20). Operational range could be similar to LRM's, offset by the requirement to super-elevate (aim up) to get the rounds on target. The Mech Mortar could also have the advantage of a smaller spread size over the LRM, as the rounds are fired from the same barrel, offset by the comparative difficulty of getting rounds on target.

In BT canon, the mortar projectiles are described as having limited tracking capability that does not tip off AMS of it's approach, which leads me to believe it uses a passive tracking method, such as thermal guidance. This could be simulated in MWO by allowing them to guide on the selected target once they reach the high point of their arch, but be given a much slower tracking rate, such that a mech that moves a sufficient distance would exit the round's fall zone and end up unharmed. A passive thermal tracking method would also justify the Mech Mortar being unaffected by ECM, and could put them into the position to be a counter to ECM platforms, assuming the platform can be targeted first.

The largest hurdle I expect for implementing the Mech Mortar would be firing at the appropriate angle to hit the designated target. Having the weapon convergence adjust upward for the right arc would be a quick and dirty method, but would be unrealistic. Adding a reticule, such as the 'lolly pop' seen on some fighter aircraft heads up displays, to allow for the pilot to know where to aim vertically to hit the target, would be a little more conceivable, but would require a UI tweak to accomplish.

In any case I feel this would correct a long standing issue with the ballistic class weapons by providing lighter weight options of credible damage output, while at the same time allowing for larger output options for the big boys should they choose. It would also have the advantage of introducing MechWarrior veterans to a weapon type previously unseen within the series.

[Strum Wealh]

Mech Mortars are actually missile-type weapons; they serve as an alternative to the LRM launchers.

In fact, each Mech Mortar type is actually spec-wise similar to its LRM analogue in terms of weight (tonnage), volume (critical spaces), and ranges (including a 180-meter minimum range).

Mech Mortars are also supposed to be more difficult to aim with any reliability and the larger models get fewer salvos per ton of ammunition than their LRM counterparts, and the number in the designation (1, 2, 4, or 8) indicates how many individual shells are fired per salvo.

The primary advantage to Mech Mortars is that they are unaffected by AMS.

[MasterErrant]

you relize the mortars have a long slow flight time? so you'ld be looking at something that performed like the lrm but without guidance which is why they are nothing but a footnote in BT. in this fast moving format you'ld have to get real lucky. the mg is a light cheap weapon intended mostly to be used against "Infantry" in Canon BT you use them to fill in weight on heat balanced mechs otherwise...they work just fine

Edited by MasterErrant, 26 March 2013 - 02:07 AM.