0
Introduced in 2474[4][5], the Archer is one of the best-known and widely-used 'Mech still in use. A contemporary of 'Mechs such as the Thunderbolt and the Banshee, the Archer's primary role is as a fire support 'Mech, though early in its combat career it was considered an assault 'Mech. More than 100,000 Archers had been produced by the start of the First Succession War, and though many have been destroyed or dismantled for spare parts, they remain a common sight in the Great House armies.
The 'Mech has been used in a variety of roles, the most common of which is its intended role of indirect fire support and bombardment of enemy fortifications. It also seems a quite popular choice for various Battlemech commanders, perhaps due to its long reach, allowing them to observe from a distance while also participating in a battle. The Archer has a top speed of 64.8 km/h and is protected by thirteen tons of armor. It's also unique in that its cockpit is located beneath the central torso, with the torso armor belt located above the cockpit to protect the Gyro and engine. The Archer's only drawbacks are that it is less effective in close quarters combat, and its familiarity is such that most enemy pilots know its design capabilities quite well. Numerous variations of the Archer continue to be produced as the various factions continue to make use of the venerable design.
Edited by omegaorgun, 20 June 2013 - 12:46 PM.
