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Line of Sight
In order to attack a target, a clear line of sight (LOS) must exist between the target and the attacker. A straight line running from the center of the target unit's hex defines the LOS between the two units.
In order to attack a target, a clear line of sight (LOS) must exist between the target and the attacker. A straight line running from the center of the target unit's hex defines the LOS between the two units.
Page 111
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LRM Indirect Fire
Units armed with LRM-type weapons may fire those missiles indirectly. Indirect fire allows a unit without direct line of sigh to a target to attack that target, though a friendly unit must have a valid line of sight to the target (this unit is referred to as the spotter).
Units armed with LRM-type weapons may fire those missiles indirectly. Indirect fire allows a unit without direct line of sigh to a target to attack that target, though a friendly unit must have a valid line of sight to the target (this unit is referred to as the spotter).
This establishes that only LRMs can fire indirectly and defines mechanically the indirect fire is at units outside of LOS with a spotter. This is different from the weapon system being indirect fire specifically even with LOS. Notice under LOS that it fails to mention what weapons are direct fire and indirect fire. This is because on page 129 it gives the individual weapon descriptions. This is where you find the information on what is and what isn't direct fire. This is further expanded upon in the Battletech Tech Manual which is the construction rules.
Page 229 Tech Manual
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Developed for reach, rather than punch, long-range missile racks are capable of indirect fire and a more concentrated dispersal of warheads. LRMs are typically mounted and launched in five-tube groups, with up to 20 tubes in a single rack, though Clan ProtoMechs may pack smaller sets. Standard LRM launchers are quite versatile, and can be easily upgraded with Artemis IV systems and even make use of a variety of special munitions. Inner Sphere launchers, which derive their impressive range from a ballistic launch angle, are notoriously less accurate close-in, especially when compared to their smaller and more compact Clan rivals. Nevertheless, their fl exibility and solid reliability at long distances has kept LRM models like Delta Dart, Holly, Shigunga and Valiant in production for centuries.
As we can plainly see that LRMs, especially IS versions, are fired at a ballistic launch angle. A ballistic launch angle is between 20-90 degrees. Link This by definition shows that LRMs are indirect fire and by misconstruing the rules on LOS to say that anything within LOS is direct fire is intellectually dishonest. The write up the weapon shows that LRMs are fired indirectly, regardless of LOS, and only the sighting rules for what is in LOS or not is just for that. It does not alter the text of the weapon system that says that it is an indirect fire weapon.
So now that we have this fundamental aspect of the Battletech and reality let's have a discussion about the merits of this balance for LRMs to fulfill their role as an indirect fire weapon system.
