The Craft History is a series of documents that can be viewed on the R Manual in R-Type Final 2. It records the development history of the R-Crafts. Future game updates will add more Craft History documents.
Craft History 01: R-9A Arrowhead
The R-9A ARROWHEAD, equipped with a Force and (a) Wave Cannon, was the first fighter deployed specifically against the Bydo. Utilizes (the) Force to fire three types of laser. The system that enabled this was later used as a model in all subsequent craft development.
Using this craft as a template, further models were created to specialize for a variety of eventualities during the war against the Bydo. Alongside the R-9 was the R-9B, able to equip powerful missiles; the long-range ballistic type R-9D; and the R-9E, capable of reconnaissance and electronic warfare. There were further derivatives of those series, such as the flamethrower specialist R-9Sk, and the R-9W, used to test the Magnetic Wave Cannon.
This led to the creation of the R-11 and the R-13, (and) crafts capable of transforming into humanoid weapons based on combat data from the R-9 series. They paved the way for the B series, which incorporated Bydo biotechnology in its structure.
Due to the R-9A's versatility, it was still being manufactured long after subsequent models had been developed, with numerous variations throughout its manufacturing history. This photo shows a late stage mass-production version of the R-9A.
Craft History 02: R-9D Shooting Star
The R-9D SHOOTING STAR is a fighter developed to gain military supremacy over long-range objectives. It is also well-known for being the basis for multiple craft(s) that succeeded the R-9A. The common feature of D-series craft(s) and their derivatives is the strike unit they are fitted with.
The bottom of the R-9D is equipped with a long-range precision strike unit, and this is utilized in the firing of the Wave Cannon. Whereas most fighters concentrate energy externally, this model does so within the unit, compressing Wave energy through inward vectors.
The slender cannon is constructed to align the direction so that the particles do not disperse, making it possible to launch compressed energy in a converged stage. This high-density energy is launched in a straight line and can hit targets hundreds of thousands of kilometers away.
Despite its development objectives, records show that the R-9D was assigned as a mid-range support craft. This is probably because the craft itself cannot withstand the heat generated in the Wave energy compression process and it was forbidden from launching long-range shots at maximum output. The craft is fitted with cooling ducts on its upper side, but these are unable to provide sufficient temperature reduction.
Craft History 03: R-9F Andromalius
"Force Unit Possibilities"
Since the R-9A rollout, the Earth Allied Armed Forces have developed a number of R-9 derived craft(s). The majority have been for the demands of the frontline or at request. Of these, the military XX Lab has created a number of prototype crafts taking very different approaches from those currently in service. These are referred to as R-9F.
Unlike the majority of craft(s), developed with a focus on laser weaponry fired by a Wave Cannon or (a) Force unit, this model was created to measure the energy transmission from a central Force unit to a control pod (formerly a component of a Bydo craft), with the ultimate aim of weaponizing it.
The laser weaponry mainly used the other Force elements. This made (it) difficult to use in practical terms because it was equipped with in-development lasers still at the concept stage. These are only prototype craft(s), but they have been allocated a craft service code because XX Lab could not secure development funding for a cascade test machine. However, they could if it was for customization of an existing craft.
The military saw potential in the data obtained from this prototype, including its experimentally fitted laser weaponry, and decided to build a full prototype for special Force development. Thus, an order was made for a test model with the fighter manufacturer, McGuire Industries. Codename: RX-10.
Craft History 04: R-9A2 Delta
Designed to be a smaller craft, the R-9A2 DELTA was created by reducing the production process and parts of the mass-produced R-9A ARROW-HEAD.
This craft was initially designed to succeed the R-9A in its suitability for mass production, however, it never got past the development stage. This was due to its incredibly compact size, making it incompatible with the improved Force control system that had been developed around the same time.
Experimentally mounted with a Diffusion W. Cannon with the purpose of destroying enemies in a wide range by using scattered nanomachines to disperse the wave cannon's energy. While just a prototype, the data collected from it in field tests using the Diffusion W. Cannon and (the) Scatter Bomb has been invaluable in the development of other craft(s), such as the R-9A3 and (the) R-9C.
Furthermore, some journalists have said that there are records for the terrestrial Bydo battles yet undisclosed by the military included in the craft's combat data, but the veracity of this has not been confirmed by the army.
Craft History 05: R-9C War-Head
The R-9C WAR-HEAD was developed to specialize in solo combat based on field data brought back by the R-9A in the first Bydo mission.
The Earth Allied Forces of that time were focused on the R-9A's solo battle results regarding its survival and believing that by giving a top craft to superior pilots they would obtain the best battle outcomes, they came up with the development concept called "The Strongest R-Fighter." The R-9C was developed using an amalgamation of cutting-edge technologies. However, the development concept disregarded the pilots themselves.
The chassis is heavily armored and lightweight, with a focus on achieving rapid acceleration with the highest specs possible. No consideration, however, had been made for the pilot's comfort or the strain put on them during flight; making the craft impossible to handle for any regular pilot. For that reason, an extensive specialized training program to pilot the craft was put together. The cockpit also required significant modification in order to be more accommodating for pilots.
It is equipped with a Diffusion W. Cannon specializing in multi-hit combat, a Shotgun Laser boasting impressive destructive power at close range, and a Search Laser that can attack targets with greater accuracy. Therefore, compared with the R-9A, it has been designed to be highly-optimized for a multitude of situations. It is also the first R-Fighter to be equipped with a low level subspace travel system.
Craft History 06: R-9D2 Morning Star
An increase in cooling ducts is essential if the R-9D's capacity is to be fully utilized, but this would then reduce the balance of the craft, rendering it impossible to pilot. The MORNING STAR R-9D2 was therefore equipped with enhanced shooting units that compress the energy more effectively and without the temperature spikes.
The issue of overheating at maximum output hasn't been completely solved, but improvements to energy efficiency have enabled firing over longer periods of time. Four rear arm verniers were equipped to stabilize the craft with its extra cooling ducts. These proved efficient in stabilizing the shot of the Wave Cannon over extended time periods and were kept even after the removal of the ducts.
Due to the concurrent full-scaled development pursuit of the R-9DH, the R-9D2's armament plans were shelved due to budget constraints, except for the Wave Cannon. However, that means this smart craft has a design that eliminates any waste.
Thanks to the rear arm verniers, this mass-produced craft is suitable for fighting in regions that are difficult for ordinary craft, such as asteroid belts that circle planets. Armaments other than the Wave Cannon remain unchanged and, as a result, its mass-production has proved economical.
Craft History 07: RX-10 Albatross
A test craft used to develop a new type of Force control system. The craft itself was assigned as a test model at the time of the project and therefore was given the RX test craft codename "RX-10".
The major feature of the RX-10 is not the craft but the large tentacle-shaped Force. Using the synapse relays that converge the Bydo, the big arms of the Control Rod provide control over the laser. Perfected as an offensive and defensive weapon, this force offers adept laser control and protection from enemy attacks.
It utilizes a new concept for the Wave Cannon, weaponizing properties used in multidimensional engines.
This craft has its primary wings positioned higher than previous R-9 fighters and its unique shape is owed to the fact that it was developed by the request of a civilian craft manufacturer. Due to the military being more focused on the Force than the craft itself during the project, the design shape was left entirely up to the manufacturer.
Craft History 08: R-9E Midnight Eye
Humanity's Eyes in the Dark
The R-9E is an AWACS craft used for intelligence and reconnaissance. It is a minimalist design, using the R-9A's navigation block and a large radar.
A Force unit was developed for the R-9E to enable a single craft to travel through suspected Bydo space without need of an escort. A special-purpose camera Bit was also developed for this and other E-series craft, with the aim of providing detailed information on approaching Bydo.
It is more useful than a simple reconnaissance craft due to its unique armament: a Force unit able to fire a laser when detached, and an explosive Wave Cannon for use at a short range. Some of the best pilots use this craft and Lieutenant Amanda Heath of Lunar City Selene has notched up great achievements in an orange R-9E nicknamed 'Orange Eyes'.
Craft History 09: R-9A3 Ladylove
The R-9A3 was developed based on data obtained from the R-9A and (the) R-9A2. It saw an overhaul of its fundamental design with the simple objective of further enhancement. While the Wave Cannon and (the) Force provided on the craft are standard armaments, they boost the craft's overall functionality effectively.
This was the first craft to be mounted with the reworked Standard Force DX, boasting an energy efficiency rate 27% better than the original. The conversion technology established by the craft is said to have conferred great benefits to subsequent Force development.
Due to improvements in energy conversion efficiency, it can discharge a much more powerful laser despite it being similar in configuration to a conventional laser. Therefore, the Standard Force DX has been easy to deploy in basic configurations in mass production, and has been adopted as an armament in many subsequent craft(s).
Interestingly, a rumor emerged from its name and the paintwork on the side of the craft that it was developed to declare love to an unknown person. However, the truth is that the naming rights for the completed R-9A3 were simply purchased by a sponsor to win over a pilot they were interested in, and was completely unrelated to the development itself.
Craft History 10: R-9DH Grace Note
The long-range precision strike unit of the R-9D series is characterized by its firing condensed energy at long range, but has the shortcoming that the irradiation time is short. The R-9DH GRACE NOTE is a fighter developed with the focus on extending this irradiation period and mitigating the shortcoming.
The policy at the time of fixed budgets for each craft series led to the new designation of DH. With the R-9D2's development already underway, the engineers realized the unlikeliness of extra funds being approved, and were able to secure a separate budget thanks to the name change. (This, however, led to a budget decrease for the aforementioned project.)
However, they still did not have a sufficient budget for all of their asks and, as a result, the extended irradiation period was achieved by releasing the compressed energy in a gentler fashion. Thus, the power per unit time has been reduced, but the craft is a top performer in sustained efficiency. The R-9DH was rolled out so more funding could be applied for in the future.
The craft has been provided with a cooling system on the improved strike unit so that it can tolerate the elevated temperatures that come with an extended irradiation time. This has increased the weight of the units and to guarantee efficient heat dissipation and craft stability, these have been secured to the top rather than the bottom.
Craft History 11: R-9B Strider
The R-9B was developed with the purpose of improving trans-dimensional flight time and thus expanding the operational range for missions. Fitted with a propellant tank, this prototype came from the idea of installing a R-9A with a versatile auxiliary tank to extend the travel range.
With the focus being on tank development, the balance between mobility and travel distance of this trans-dimensional fighter suffered, and so it was decided that it would be used in missions where long-distance travel was required.
Considerably larger than other crafts, the R-9B forewent mobility, and was instead installed with the extremely high-powered "Balmung" missile. This craft's main duty is to penetrate through defenses and bombard the enemy with missiles. To bolster its defensive capabilities, the Wave Cannon launches a Barrier Cube to protect the craft from the enemy projectiles as its reduced mobility leaves it more vulnerable to attack.
During the manufacturing of this craft on Mars' Granzella, a rebellion broke out and the factory was for a time appropriated by the insurgency forces who had revolted against the Earth Allied Forces.
Craft History 12: R-9AX Delicatessen
The R-9AX DELICATESSEN has been used to test Bits and Wave Cannons for specific conditions, and various craft(s) have then been developed using the data acquired form it. Of particular interest, it was this craft's Standard W. Cannon X that was first used to test the implementations of nanomachines in Wave Cannon tech.
The Standard W. Cannon releases energy on impact that immediately dissipates. To ensure this residual energy could be used more efficiently in battle, research and development experimented with the use of nanomachines.
Nanomachines were developed to harness the Wave Cannon's residual energy after impact, giving it homing capabilities to apply pressure on remaining enemy units. Thus, the Standard W. Cannon X fitted with nanomachines was born. The X in the name represents the countless unknown applications born from the combination of nanomachines and the Wave Cannon.
In R-9AX test flights, it was confirmed that energy projectiles would home in on hostile decoys. They demonstrated no problems with tracking down fast-moving enemies too, and so the implementation of nanomachines was considered to be a success. The slight anomalies observed in the pilot's brain waves and the nanomachine control values were deemed to not pose any significant danger.
Craft History 13: R-9K Sunday Strike
The R-9K SUNDAY STRIKE is a review and redesign of parts based on the R-9C using next-generation technology. Its main features, such as the Diffusion W. Cannon and low-level subspace travel system, have been upgraded and it has eliminated the R-9C's development cost and pilot issue disadvantages.
The armament upgrades respond to concerns regarding the narrow effective range of the Search Laser from the R-9C's combat data, which has been replaced with a Spread Laser offering a wider attack range. Furthermore, the enhanced Shotgun Laser DX unleashes scatterblasts after detonating, providing the destructive power of the close-range Shotgun Laser wile being effective against multiple targets; closing any gaps in an already tight offensive.
The craft has been manufactured in great numbers due to its more efficient manufacturing costs and stability; this is thanks, in part, to it being a redesign of the previous model. Even after being retired from the frontline, it has gained popularity for its use as a test craft for development thanks to its stability.
Craft History 14: R-9A4 Wave Master
The R-9A4 WAVE MASTER has achieved impressive military feats as the final model in the R-9A series, but the surprising truth is that it was never intended for development. The reason for this decision was that the R-9A's armament enhancement for a mass-produced model had been realized by its predecessor, the R-9A3.
There have been various rumors regarding how this craft did eventually come into development, though the most plausible of these is that its utilization of the Standard W. Cannon was used as a model to base the improvement of Wave Cannon output installed on other fighters.
The Standard W. Cannon is the most basic Wave Cannon, and its design is incorporated in almost all other Wave Cannons. While the charge capacity and output levels have been successfully enhanced, some say that if it could be improved further, it should be possible to apply the theory and tech to various types of Wave Cannon.
While it has not been confirmed in any official accounts, it is thought that a number of Wave Cannons boasting similar charge capacity and even greater output have been developed since the rollout of the R-9A4.
Craft History 15: R-9DH2 Hot Conductor
The Steady Photon-Belt's potential was recognized thanks to the escapades of the R-9DH, and additional budget was granted for the DH series. The development goal of the R-9DH2 HOT CONDUCTOR was to regain the reduced attack power per unit of time.
Research and development achieved raising peak power to the same level of the Photon-Belt W. Cannon, but with the budget stretched, development of all other armaments apart from the Wave Cannon was deferred. However, with an eye to the future, the research was carried over to the R-9DH3.
Mounted with an even large Wave Cannon to produce more power. The heat dissipation of the cooling ducts alone became insufficient following this upgrade and so additional radiator hoses were added to the rear of the craft. It is said that the expansion of armaments in this area was the main cause of development costs being depleted so rapidly.
Craft History 16: R-9B2 Stayer
Using the R-9B long-distance craft that was currently being mass produced there as a reference model, the insurgency forces enhanced it and developed the R-9B2. They managed to extend its travel range further and equipped it with Balmung missiles.
To extended its already popular long-range travel capacity, they equipped it with wings to provide physical lift, something rarely seen on an R fighter. This, of course, further increased the craft's size.
Craft History 17: R-9E2 Owl Light
"Ominous Twilight"
Lieutenant Amanda Heath's exploits justified the bold experiment to equip minimally armed reconnaissance craft with an early-warning system when on missions without escort craft. The military allocated some of the R-9E with some minor modifications to Lieutenant Heath and tasked her with single-craft reconnaissance missions with wider ranges.
Lieutenant Heath has an early warning craft , R-9E2, that is painted in her signature orange. Her personal craft with its improved Camera Force is deployed on A-Class Bydo subjugation solo missions under the guise of scouting missions.
She has succeeded in eliminating her target on every mission her flashy orange R-9E2 has been deployed on. In light of this, the senior military command began to specially create two different craft, with her as the intended pilot.
One of these was the final model of the series, the R-9E3, which carried on the legacy of the R-9E. The other was the R-9ER which boasted electronic warfare as part of an early warning system. Lieutenant Heath was given the choice...
Craft History 18: R-9AF Morning Glory
The R-9AF is a work craft used in construction and maintenance of space bases that has been repurposed for battle. Tests were planned for the firing of a Wave Cannon via a Force unit, but as there were no fight craft able to serve as a base, work craft with broken manipulators served as a stopgap.
The tests succeeded, and discussions began over candidate craft to be equipped with the armament, or if a new craft should be developed. However, the merits of firing a Wave Cannon via a Force unit were not well understood, and as attacks would largely be relying on using the Force at close-range, it was decided that a high-spec craft was unnecessary, and the aforementioned work craft were converted and sent into action.
Known as MORNING GLORY, it is associated with a song praising those who travelled to the frontier during the era of space exploration, with lyrics referencing the Japanese flower.
Craft History 19: R-9AX2 Dinner Bell
According to currently public records, the military has recognised the usefulness of nanomachines in the tests carried out with the R-9AX. Notwithstanding that, a second special weapons test craft was developed. It inherited most of the armaments of the previous R-9AX and was given a R-series model to distinguish it. The R-9AX2 is among the most mysterious craft in the fleet.
What is known about the R-9AX2 is only that it has a Wave Cannon with a maximum output surpassing of other craft. It is widely considered that the data obtained using the craft on nanomachines' maximum sustainable energy led to it serving as the development for the Nanomachine W. Cannon equipped by the craft's successor, the R-9W.
The speculation is probably correct. However, this was probably not the only goal of the military with this aircraft. Questions are raised by the lack of available information about it. Below are the contents of a recovered voice tape believed to have been left by a pilot who participated in the R-9AX2'S testing. The records were preserved for a limited time in a secret military database.
"It has been some time since I was assigned the role of test pilot. Ever since, my life has been completely under the control of those jerks in the development team. And I can't even fly the craft without having weird measuring devices attached to every part of me. I think that's why I feel like I'm suffocating when I fire the Wave Cannon. Even equipping the Force and the Bit makes me feel sick sometimes. I've take part in the testing of other craft, but I've never felt like this before. What the hell kind of experiment are they conducting on me?!"
Craft History 20: RX-12 Cross the Rubicon
The flagship R-9A-Derived craft have been deployed on a variety of missions and the military have decided that from the battle data, this is the pinnacle of the R-9 series. The military sent spec documents for a next-generation fighter to various arms manufacturers and looked to enlist the services of industrial developments. One of the companies that applied was Warrick Inc.
Warrick Inc. was a latecomer to the military arms industry and chiefly undertook work with the R-9 series in the maintenance of mass-produced craft and custom chains. They bet the future of the company on winning the development order book for a next generation of important fighter craft. Their strategy for enhancing the craft was to transfer the combat abilities of the Bydo fragment at the core of the Force to a stronger armament.
The RX-12 was the test craft that enhanced the Force's Bydo coefficient of current craft beyond marginal theoretical values. The craft was never intended for use in combat and hence had not been given a name.
There are in fact a small number of records of the RX-12 participating in battles. This was the result of Warrick Inc. insistently lobbying military officials to allow the craft into battle so they could collect data. The name of the craft was given by some military officials with a large hint of irony at the willingness of Warrick and the senior military leadership to step into an arena from which there could be no turning back. Now that we can look back on events with the benefit of hindsight, the name was highly appropriate in light of the development history that followed.
Craft History 21: R-9S Strike Bomber
This craft was developed from the R-9C that was used in the Second Bydo Mission with the purpose of making it easier for mass manufacture. Unlike the R-9K in which cost reductions were made, the R-9S STRIKE BOMBER was made for optimal performance.
The major feature of the R-9S is its Mega W. Cannon and its ability to blast through obstacles. The Mega W. Cannon utilizes the principles that electromagnetic waves penetrate through matter, and so differs from regular Wave Cannons in that it uses as special wave energy field. However, it needs enough energy to spread through a physical object and the energy will dissipate if it does not reach this level.
The costs of the unit the generates the field to launch the Mega W. Cannon are particularly expensive. Therefore, the Force has been switched for a cheaper standard model and it reuses the model of the R-9C to make it suitable for mass production. However, fewer units have been produced compared to the R-9K which prioritized cost-effectiveness.
The craft is a simple enhanced model of the R-9A and its familiarity means it has been well received by experienced pilots. Since the Second Bydo Mission, it has mainly been deployed in fleets patrolling the outskirts of the solar system.
Craft History 22: R-9DH3 Concertmaster
After many long years of research, the final R-9DH3 CONCERTMASTER, equipped with a Hyper-Extended Irradiation Beam, was completed. The result of specific development in this area means it now boasts the longest discharge duration of all Wave Cannons.
It requires a considerable amount of charge time to realize its potential. For that reason, it is necessary that the pilot has a high level of technical skill; and piloting the craft carries a certain status. Once on the battlefield, it can easily take down groups of enemies with its long-ranged, long-duration Wave Cannon.
As a foreseeable outcome for accommodating to the high output and heat dissipation functionality, the craft has had to be made considerably larger. Weighing double that of the R-9A, and being costly to produce, records show it has mostly only been deployed in critical battles.
Craft History 23: R-9E3 Sweet Luna
Following on from the R-9E and R-9E2 early warning craft, the R-9E3 has been equipped with a Force unit and serves as a fighter. Ace pilot Lieutenant Heath was offered one of the new R-9ER series craft, but she chose this one and there was no changing her mind.
Lieutenant Amanda Heath ordered the A-Class Bydo search and destroy missions. She then boarded her signature orange prototype craft and headed for the ruins of the space base.
However, after communicating the successful annihilation of the A-Class Bydo identified as the Lilli Prototype, the craft she was piloting lost all contact and disappeared.
Four months after Lieutenant Heath final communication, the military announced that she was missing in action. There were several more R-9E3's built after that, but there was no one to pilot them. Once news of Lieutenant Heath's disappearance was made public, the craft became known as SWEET LUNA, after her hometown.
Craft History 24: R-9ER Powered Silence
The R-9ER is an electronic warfare craft initially deployed by the Mars insurgency, who designated it the REAW-1. It differs from the rest of the R-9E series in its spherical radome that can collect complete directional and distortion free data, and its electronic warfare functionality that can scramble the enemy's radar.
The REAW-1 was stripped of its electronic warfare capability when it was equipped with a Force unit and renamed the R-9ER. However, its systems previously used for electronic warfare are now employed to enable its Wave Cannon to target enemies detected by its Force.
Immediately after it left the production line, its successor, the REAW-2 (later the R-9ER2) entered the testing stage and its manufacture was planned. This meant that only a few of the R-9ER were ever produced.
The leadership of the Earth Allied Armed Forces anticipated that this early warning craft would be used by ace pilot Lieutenant Heath, known as Orange Eyes, and so equipped it with Force armaments, but she selected the R-9E3 instead.
Craft History 25: R-9AD Escort Time
With the R-9A3's development complete, a system was established to enable high-performance combat craft to be reliably mass produced. With the roster of pilots growing in experience, more missions were being flown in formations, and this led to a greater emphasis being placed on how best to array them. The R-9AD was initially developed as a training craft for studying formations.
At the start, it was equipped with an exterior unit that could generate holograms of R-Fighters. Changing the unit's angle enabled a formation to be simulated. The direction of the craft's development changed when an officer visited to observe the training facility researching formations.
The officer asked whether the hologram could be made physical and made to attack. This gave the lead researcher a real headache: a hologram is in essence just a visual—there is no way to make one attack! He requested some help from the Wave energy specialist team. He conjectured that there might be a yet-unknown form of latent Wave energy that could be used to meet the officer's request.
The researcher's intuition turned out to be correct and the result of the officer's flippant comment was a decoy unit developed after much labor. Part of the energy produced during the Wave Cannon's recharge is diverted into a special field generated by the unit, and the form of a fighter is generated. It was thus possible to alter the formation by altering the angle of the field. The R-9AD was immediately rolled out to demonstrate the effectiveness of the decoy unit.
Craft History 26: R-9Leo Leo
The R-9Leo was developed to handle specialized Bit Devices. Bits were a support weapon developed for man-made Force, but during the First Bydo Mission there had been insufficient time to fully grasp its offensive capabilities. Bit research continued, although with poor results.
That was until an unclassified LEO fighter was picked up from a trans-dimensional rift. In appearance it is strikingly similar to the R-9A but it is distinguishable by its lack of a Force control system and Wave Cannon injection mechanism. The unique system on the Bit control device that allows the pilots' reaction waves to be input as commands is particularly noteworthy.
The system allows the pilot to directly launch Bits at enemies they have detected. This model thus excels in offensive maneuvers with it being able to initiate multiple attacks according to the energy it has charged. Although largely still speculation, analysis of the craft suggests that it was manufactured by humans in a parallel dimension.
The development team used data from LEO as a base to restore the Psy Bit and made it compatible with Force to give birth to the new R-9Leo. And so, with the help of humanity from another dimension, they were able to create the long-hoped for offensive Bit. However, due to most of the craft's resources being devoted to the control of the Psy Bit, it was necessary to drop the output of the Wave Cannon.
Craft History 27: R-9W Wise Man
The R-9W series was specially created to test the viability of the Magnetic Wave Cannon. All aircraft in this series demand a lot mentally from its pilots to the extent that they are often not capable of even deboarding so the test tube-like canopy is made to snap in and out instead. When changing pilots, the whole canopy section must be removed as well.
The development of the R-9W WISE MAN was born from the idea that if the Wave Cannon's trajectory could be manipulated, it would prove a more efficient killing machine. The result was a design that gave remote guidance capability to the nanomachines used by the R-9AX Wave Cannon.
However, controlling these powerful nanomachines infused with high-level Wave energy is a trying task that has proved particularly difficult for inexperienced pilots. The affinity of the pilot and the nanomachines can be increased by conveying the pilot's vital energy into the craft and thereby making it temporarily easier to control the movement speed. This comes at the cost of requiring days to weeks of recovery for those who use it frequently.
Craft History 28: R-9DV Tears Shower
The R-9DV TEARS SHOWER differs from the rest of the R-9D series in that it is not equipped with a Wave Cannon, but instead with a Vulcan Cannon launch unit that fires photon bullets. V was added to the model name to indicate its Vulcan Cannon.
Similar to models equipped with a Wave Cannon, it takes a substantial amount of time to charge a shot, and this shortcoming has led to numerous reported instances of the craft being overwhelmed by enemies while charging. The Vulcan launch unit was developed as a solution to this problem. It uses photon bullets that tear through enemies with their high velocity and high power.
Photon bullets boast awesome destructive power due to their use of anti-matter, and on impact will instantly release a massive amount of energy to instantly annihilate a target. The characteristics of this type of ammo means that they are less suited for attacks on large Bydo with robust armor. Further, when fired, the large number of bullets disperse, but they are made of a special material and decompose in the environment after a few seconds.
When deployed in battles involving a large number of smaller Bydo, the R-9DV has achieved the results expected from its development purpose. The military's decision to remove the R-Fighter's main Wave Cannon injection mechanism has been widely praised.
Craft History 29: R-13T Echidna
Through the development of the RX-12, a craft which aimed to maximize the Bydo coefficient, it was learned that enhancing the destructive capacity of the Force's Bydo would render it impossible to control wirelessly.
The R-13T is a craft equipped with a laser chain for Force data collection and control. Its main purpose was not solely to collect data but also to assist the training of pilots learning to gain control of the Cable Force. Extensive testing with this craft enabled Warrick Inc. to develop the R-13A as a next-generation fighter-a creation of which they are proud.
Craft History 30: TX-T Eclipse
"The Transforming Betrayer"
The TX-T is a test craft carrying on the experiment of the Force prototype RX-10 ALBATROSS. The main purpose of the craft is Tentacle Force usage data collection and variable structure testing for rapid changes. For that reason, the majority of armaments are the same as the RX-10.
A craft used in testing missions on the Mars base. When rebellion broke out during its mission, the craft and its data were stolen by the insurgency. Since then, the insurgent forces have made further improvements, put the craft into mass production, and it now forms a major part of their fighting force.
The ECLIPSE fighter performs outstandingly in the hands of the insurgency, with a young Emma Crawford managing to take down 74 craft in it in her days before becoming a fleet commander.
This has made the craft a target of hatred by many of the officers in the opposing military. Once the insurgency was defeated, the craft's factories were immediately shut down and manufacture suspended.
Craft History 31: R-9B3 Sleipnir
The R-9B3 is based on the R-9B and R-9B2 that were manufactured by the insurgency forces on Mars. The Earth Allied Forces seized the Mars weapons factories and used the insurgency's facilities to manufacture this craft.
The craft differs from the R-9B2 that was built assuming it would battle within the atmospheres of planets of the Solar System. The Allied Forces determined that it would not need the R-9B2's long- range capabilities, as it would only be used in interstellar battles transported by a mother ship, and so they reduced the capacity of the tank and installed more thrusters.
It is equipped with a Balmung missile and an enhanced type of Defensive Force.
Craft History 32: R-9AD2 Princedom
The decoy unit was supposed to serve not only as a means of attack but also as a way to divert enemies. However, detector-type Bydo were not deceived- possibly because they respond to the life energy of the pilots. Despite this, the R-9AD went on to prove its worth during a certain incident.
An incident occurred in which a large number of small Bydo attacked in the vicinity of Warkus, a training base on Mars. Because they had slipped past the patrols and were only confirmed late, support was not immediately available, meaning the test-use R-9AD on Warkus had to be deployed. Despite only being few in number, they successfully used the decoy units to cover a wide range and were splendid in their defense of the base.
The military officers were extremely impressed. They issued immediate orders to the development team to further improve the unit, starting with expanding the range of the craft's capabilities for solo missions. The improved unit allows for a maximum of four decoys. The model is known as the R-9AD2 and generates its own pseudo squad.
Unfortunately, because the decoy unit requires Wave energy to be diverted, it necessarily results in a reduction in the Wave Cannon's power. Pilots using it are therefore required to have outstanding formation command skills. It is difficult to use, but in the right hands its applications are almost endless.
Craft History 33: R-9ER2 Unchained Silence
"Silence Unleashed"
The R-9ER2 is based on the electronic warfare craft REAW-2, which was developed and deployed by the Mars insurgency. The REAW-2 was a greatly superior craft in electronic warfare and it caused a lot of problems for the Earth Allied Forces when trying to suppress the rebels.
Once they had quelled the insurgency, the Alliance rebuilt the craft as a fighter and fitted it with a bespoke Spherical Radome Force.
There are rumors that the military's weapon development department is designing a new early warning and electronic warfare craft able to deploy the Force without sacrificing electronic warfare functionality, but no formal announcement has been made.
Craft History 34: R-9WB Happy Days
The R-9WB HAPPY DAYS is a prototype craft designed to test the Split Wave Cannon. Only a few military personnel know the true meaning behind the name "Happy."
One of the development goals of the craft was to reduce the mental burden on pilots. The primary focus being whether it was possible to recover damaged brain functions through the use of a custom Wave Cannon. The development team solved the problem by sending a special electrical signal directly to the brain to activate proper chemical secretions behaviour.
A test tube-like canopy was adopted due to the rare cases where pilots exhibited symptoms of poisoning from excessive chemical secretions in the brain. Curiously, those pilots who had been poisoned would repeatedly ask to pilot the craft more. They claimed that they could feel truly happy as long as they were in the craft.
The craft that brings happier days.
"HAPPY DAYS"
Craft History 35: TW-1 Duckbill
TW-1 DUCKBILL is a non-combat, self-propelled mobile container, mainly used for zero-gravity transportation. Two Manipulators were installed for ease-of-use indoors.
During development tests, the container was mistakenly equipped with some R fighter parts, which unexpectedly worked well in non-combat situations allowing for greater movement. These modifications were kept and so the craft remained widely used for non-combat operations.
Incidentally, the model deployed in battle was a prototype built using combat-ready fighter parts before it entered mass production as a logistics craft. It is installed with a Cube Force derived from the Rodless Force as a new Force operational test.
Craft History 36: R-9DV2 Northern Lights
The military leadership recognized the effectiveness of the Vulcan-type photon launch unit and ordered the development team to further enhance it. The R-9DV2 NORTHERN LIGHTS was the result of this work. By limiting the recoil and increasing muzzles, they have achieved an enhanced launch unit with an improved rapid fire time.
It was believed that it would still be insufficiently effective against large Bydo because of the deferred function of the photon bullets, but one pilot managed to break that misconception.
His name was Emile Os Herman and at the time he had been a Second Lieutenant. In addition to his outstanding skills as a pilot, Second Lieutenant Herman was an extraordinary shooter. During a complicated battle, he had fired a volley of photon bullets at a large Bydo with such precise timing that it resulted in its destruction.
This splendid achievement earned him a space on the roster of ace pilots. The development team then managed to replicate these results with pilots who could not boast the same talent as Second Lieutenant Herman with just some minor changes to the piloting and firing stability. The R-9DV2 in use have now all been reconfigured except for the craft used by Herman.
Craft History 37: R-9DP Hakusan
The R-9DP HAKUSAN is a specialized craft for close- range attack and the first of its kind in the R-Fighter series. Instead of a Wave Cannon, it has been equipped with a weapon that launches at high speed pile made of cemented carbide, known as the Pile Bunker.
Whereas most current military craft tend to attack from distance with Wave Cannons, this craft's Pile Bunker is limited to extremely short range. On top of this, many types of Bydo are known to employ energy bullets, putting it at an immense disadvantage when facing these enemies. Although it is unsuited to battling Bydo, this craft is still too powerful to be an excavator, and so many have questioned why so much precious budget was used in its development.
There are records that a certain distinguished individual was involved in the development, but his identity remains shrouded in mystery. According to rumor, he is a very charismatic engineer and always on the hunt for romance. He worked with others who agreed with his values to develop the R-9DP.
The R-9DP has not been produced in great numbers, but it has a cult following among pilots attracted to the romance of the development's story, and many have longed to wield its one-shot destructive power. The name "HAKUSAN" is from the beautiful mountain that overlooks the engineer's hometown.
Craft History 38: R-9AD3 King's Mind
The final craft in the R-9AD series, it pushes the possibilities of the decoy unit to the absolute limit. The unit can deploy a maximum of six decoys and it takes several years of training for a pilot to fully utilize the formation. Accordingly, being licensed to pilot the R-9AD3 is the highest evaluation of a pilot's ability.
The R-9AD3's range capabilities have been maximized, allowing it to play a leading role in group defensive battles. The decoys deployed around the main craft will not allow any enemy through. For this reason, they are often used as a final line of defense, with the sight of the craft fending off an enemy attack being reminiscent of a king commanding a battle. Its consistently outstanding performance in a defensive capacity is a source of pride.
Calculations become more complicated as the number of decoys increases and so the unit's size has increased with each improvement. Any further increase in decoys would impact the flight of the craft, and there is also a high risk that the fields the units generate would interfere with each other, causing a Wave energy explosion.
Craft History 39: R-9WF Sweet Memories
The conversion of life energy into Wave energy in the R-9W. Cerebral function research and the reduction in mental drain on the pilot of the R-9WB. The end result of these experiments led to the creation of the R-9WF SWEET MEMORIES.
With a sturdy infrastructure to care for mental health in place, pilots were now able to tolerate increased psychological burdens (i.e. recover more efficiently). The Wave Cannon installed in the craft uses cerebral waves that are produced when the pilot is in a particular mental state, converting life energy to Wave energy to use as munition.
There are numerous rumors about what causes this mental state. Some say it is from a pilot's trauma, and others say that it comes from their past glories. The truth, however, is unknown. Whichever version is true, one fact remains consistent throughout reports, that is the craft is deftly efficient at stirring these emotions from the pilot's psyche.
Craft History 40: R-13A Cerberus
The R-13A was delivered by arms manufacturer, Warrick Inc. as a candidate next-generation fighter and successor to the R-9 series. It enhanced the destructive capacity of the Bydo that form the core of the Force and utilized a laser chain to control it, forming a holistic offensive and defensive battle system. Pilots are linked to the Bydo destructive impulse through the laser chain, allowing them to control the Force as they please. In addition, the equipped Wave Cannon has an enemy tracking capability. This combination of cutting-edge technologies meant that the craft's performance far exceeded that of the other candidates' proposals.
The military progressed procedures to formally adopt the R-13A and its improved model R-13A2, but at the last minute that adoption was pulled. The procurement budget for next-generation fighters was restricted and the R-11 was adopted instead, as it could also be used in cities.
In a top-secret mission that doubled as the R-13A's final test, it went missing without contact and never returned. Some claimed this was why the craft was not adopted, but the military denied the occurrence of such a mission, and there was no way to confirm the truth of the matter.
Craft History 41: TP-1 Scope Duck
TP-1 SCOPE DUCK is based on the TW-1 that was developed as a self-propelled container and is a bipedal reconnaissance unit enhanced for detection and analysis. The two Manipulators were switched for legs and it can smoothly takeoff, land, and walk. Furthermore, it can carry a significant amount of fuel, and so, although its mobility is inferior to the R-9E reconnaissance series, it does have improved maneuverability and operational times.
The TP-1 has gradually had its armaments removed and is deployed without a crew due to its long operational times spent in enemy territory; its capabilities now differ considerably from when it was first manufactured. The initial model was officially equipped with a Carnival W. Cannon and Cube Force that was tested with the TW-1, for its intended use as a manned reconnaissance craft.
Craft History 42: R-11A Future World
The fighters derived from the R-9A have undergone a wide range of modifications in order to adapt to different environments and missions. However, with this diversity has come consistently high production costs. Moreover, these modifications to the R-9A have failed to change its basic structure, leading to issues when newly developed weaponry is equipped. The military thus decided to hold an open bidding process for the mass-production of a next- generation craft. The leading companies among the bidders were the civilian aircraft manufacturer McGuire Industries, who had won the contract for the RX-10's development, Warrick Inc., who mainly worked on R-Fighter customization and maintenance, and finally Whistler Space Inc., a subsidiary company whose predecessor developed the legendary R-9A, and who had rapidly begun developing and producing trans-dimensional fighters and built up an impressive market share.
The proposed craft by Whistler Space Inc. differed from the proposals of the other two bidders in that it focused on a compact craft and kept production costs low. The spec document of the military stated in its first point that the new craft must be able to "dispense with A-Class Bydo in a short space of time." The other two companies had thus developed crafts equipped with extensive combat systems. On the contrary, Whistler Space Inc.'s proposed craft was minimalist and low cost, raising the possibility of equipping it with next-generation weaponry without increasing the craft's size. Further, Whistler Space Inc. succeeded in obtaining data for a special control rod for Force control and the usage rights to Shock W. Cannon technology equipped on the RX-10 through a cross-licensing agreement with their competitor, McGuire Industries. Their proposed craft combined these technologies to achieve a smaller size together with cost savings. On top of this, it linked up its velocity control system with its Force laser control system, and was capable of calibrating its attack range and firepower on the fly thanks to its Gallop Force and Mini Burst W. Cannon.
McGuire Industries withdrew from the bidding process when the Mars cities were engulfed in chaos, leaving it as a two-horse race between Warrick Inc. and Whistler Space Inc. There were rumors that the military were going to adopt a strategy that combined the high-cost, high-power craft with the low-cost craft, and there was widespread speculation that both companies' proposals would be adopted, but in the end, the Gallop Force craft proposed by Whistler Space Inc. was officially adopted on its own and named the R-11. (The craft proposed by Warrick Inc. would later be officially adopted as the R-13, but production stopped after a few craft.)
The reasons given for the R-11's adoption were not elaborated on by the military beyond that it had comprehensively met the criteria and the need for low production costs. However, immediately before adoption, the Warrick Inc. craft had gone missing, and there was also a reduction in aggressive Bydo infiltrating the solar system. According to most, this created a background where the military were unwilling to experiment with completely new technology and be burdened with excessive production costs. Thus, production of the successor craft to the R-9 series, the R-11A, was begun by Whistler Space Inc.
Craft History 43: R-9Sk Principalities
Since the development of the R-9AX, there has been a considerable push within the military for special arms development, and a proposal submitted by one developer has attracted particular attention. The paper was titled "The Effects of New Weaponry Using Ultraheat Flames" and discussed removing the ultrahot plasma from a miniaturized tokamak and using it as a means of attack on a target. The military recognized the potential and built a flame weapon development team with the paper's author as a lead, and ordered the development of the R-9Sk.
The biggest problem in utilizing the tokamak as a weapon was how to discharge the internal heat build-up within the craft. The development team installed multiple large radiators and removed as much of the craft's exterior as possible to allow for heat dissipation. Development continued on with this approach until reaching the final test flight stage, with an imminent rollout to follow.
The test pilot was Second Lieutenant Sara Osmond. She was a young officer with excellent piloting skills, astounding knowledge, and a promising career. However, she met with tragedy. Through repeated use of the flame weapon, the craft met the limit of its heat dissipation capacity and started to overheat. The craft burst into flames with Second Lieutenant Osmond inside. This incident resulted in limitations being put on the output of flame weaponry to match the heat dissipation capacity.
Since the tragic accident, a similar incident hasn't occurred with the limitations placed on output, and the R-95k was rolled out without incident. It was named PRINCIPALITIES after the name recorded on the lead developer's paper. "Principalities" are angels that guide nations, and so some think of the craft as angels destined to crush the demonic Bydo. There are also rumors that the name pays tribute to Second Lieutenant Osmond's sacrifice, but only the developer knows the truth.
Craft History 44: TL-T Chiron
The TL-T is a versatile craft that was created as a prototype for the occupation and siege of enemy bases, separate to the TW and TP models that were developed for transportation. It was developed using the low-cost frame of the mass-produced R-9K.
In fighter mode it is primarily used at cruising distances and speeds. In humanoid mode, it can launch a shield to defend against attack and then close the distance with its target while using its armaments to wear down and eventually destroy them.
The name of this craft, CHIRON, was taken from a wise centaur of Greek mythology. The TL-T test team named it this to reflect that it had two forms-fighter and humanoid-like the half- human, half-horse sage.
With the Hybrid Wave Cannon System, the pilot can switch between two Wave Cannons depending on the Force equipped. The TL-T was expected to be pivotal in a wide range of conditions, but few were made because of high costs.
Craft History 45: OF-1 Daedalus
An Orbital Strike Unit developed using the data obtained from the TX-T. It has a variable structure to stabilize its balance mechanism when changing speed, and as it can fly through space on its own power, it does not need to be transported on a spacecraft carrier like other fighters. It has two major points that make it stand out among the OF series craft.
First is its peculiar Force. It differs from the conventional mechanism of manipulating energy through a control rod in that it is shaped to be able to directly dock with the craft, earning it the name "head part." Because the design considers stability and balance when entering and exiting the atmosphere, the form can be further subdivided according to the types of armament.
Second is the Bit Device unique to the OF series, also known as the "Pod." The Pod is a device with an emphasis on attack, and in addition to its two Vulcans, it can be used to physically strike a target by launching it. By using the Cyber Connector interface device, the pilot's will is transmitted directly to the Bit, allowing them to control the direction of fire.
The OF series marks a clear departure from the R- Fighter. They are famous for having a wealth of unique features, meaning that pilots must undergo a severe training regimen before they are proficient enough to take it into battle. Those who do not reach the required level must undergo particularly hellish additional training.
Craft History 46: R-90 Ragnarok
The R-9/0 uses the body frame from a mass-produced craft, the enhanced R-9S, and combines it with various feature improvements. This was the craft that saved humanity from destruction during the Third Bydo Mission. However, the model currently deployed is a mass-produced type based on the original with more stable functionality.
The first thing that springs to mind with the R-9/0 is the Hyperdrive System. This system radiates and disperses charged Wave energy outside of the craft and, through a separate recharge mechanism, is capable of successive Wave Cannon blasts. Because it fires a series of primary cannon shots, it has remarkable destructive power. However, successful control of this Wave energy can be particularly difficult and there is no prospect of firing other Wave Cannons in succession.
Further, the Wave Cannon discharge places a great burden on the craft and this is a factor in it not realizing a series of shots. As the original did not have a complete mitigation mechanism, and would overheat after a shot was fired, special measures were needed to ensure pilots' safety. The current mass-produced design can now be piloted by anyone thanks to tweaks to the energy distribution and the burden mitigation when firing consecutive shots.
Another major characteristic of the R-9/0 is that it is equipped with the completely man-made Shadow Force, which does not use any Bydo elements. After many years of Bit development with the goal of creating a man-made Force, this support weapon was finalized. The R-9/0 RAGNAROK is known as the miracle fighter which realized two of humanity's long-held goals: a man-made Force and a Wave Cannon capable of rapid fire.
Craft History 47: R-9DP2 Asanogawa
The man's epic quest had not finished. To the contrary, the flame of his dream blazed even hotter as things started to take shape. The R-9DP2 ASANOGAWA was another step towards meeting the great challenge.
The basic technology for the Pile Bunker had been produced during the R-9DP's development, but much room for improvement remained. One of the main difficulties was increasing its power-since the R-9DP was a launch unit variant of the R-9DV, many craft used its body frame, and its small size led to it being unable to withstand greater recoil.
The craft's design was reviewed and the body frame was increased in size to diffuse the recoil better, and a special alloy that is more supple and more durable was adopted. Normally, there would be no budget or authorization to procure these sorts of parts, but because one of the military chiefs believed in the dream, they were supplied through alternative channels.
Numerous other improvements were secretively made to the R-9DP2. It has a stronger firing mechanism and with the increased launch speed, it even becomes charged with electricity. The name "ASANOGAWA" came from a majestic river in the town where the engineer was born and raised.
Craft History 48: R-11B Peace Maker
The R-11B is a craft with partial changes to the armaments of the already deployed R-11A. To reduce production costs for the R-11 craft, the military made the decision to provide it to security forces in remote regions and to privately run peacekeeping organizations, rather than in the war against the Bydo. They were successful in increasing the number of craft manufactured and reducing the cost per craft.
R-11s that were deployed in city security organizations had their Wave Cannons switched to the Lock-On W. Cannon that was easier to use in urban environments. The Lock-On W. Cannon can be used with pinpoint accuracy and the firing time can be adjusted, making it ideal for use in built-up areas. This craft with the Lock-On W. Cannon was called the R-11B, and in the end it was manufactured in greater numbers than the R-11A.
The A and B models of the R-11 were manufactured in great quantity for deployment both on the battlefield and in urban areas. The R-11 series was notably the final craft to be mass-manufactured with the R series' characteristic round canopy. In battle with the constantly evolving and diversifying Bydo, the R-11 reached its limits for mass deployment due to its unified weaponry. The R-11S and then the R-1182 were successor craft in the series, but neither met the mass- production status of the A and B models, effectively bringing an end to the series.
Craft History 49: TW-2 Kiwi Berry
The R-9A2 is the famous craft from the Demonic Rhapsody battle, but it was not anticipated that it would be used for battles in urban areas, and many have raised concerns about the collateral damage it has inflicted. Therefore, there was a push for R-Fighters specializing in planetary warfare and, in particular, land combat. This development was approved, resulting in the land combat R-Fighter model, the TW-2 KIWI BERRY.
The TW-2 uses a caterpillar tread to propel itself, meaning that it can stably move even on poor terrain. It is mounted with a special form of Wave Cannon called a Goliath on its head that shoots Wave energy in an arc. It uses the TW-1 frame that has a low center of gravity, and by utilizing the whole of the craft's body to root it, it can completely limit the powerful recoil and shoot with extremely high accuracy. Although it looks like a tank, it can also fly. During flight it fires its Wave Cannon in a horizontal direction.
The TW-2 has a custom Drill Force that consists of a large drill attached to a control rod, which is launched into enemies and then breaks them apart by rotating. On top of this, it has laser weaponry powered by the drill's rotation. It is a particularly unique craft, even among R-Fighters.
However, it was unable to effectively counter Bydo in land combat as was initially intended, and so the developers are now focused on improving the output of its Wave Cannon.
Craft History 50: R-9Sk2 Dominions
The R-9Sk2 DOMINIONS was created to remedy the R-9Sk's heat dissipation problems and maximize the flame weapon's output. It is equipped with the latest in radiator technology, and through an additional reserve tank on the rear, improves the heat dissipation performance. This extra equipment allows the flame weaponry to be used at maximum output for an extended period.
Control of the enhanced flame output can be difficult, and it has the new problem of its flames causing damage to escorting craft in the vicinity, and so it is used as a solitary craft. The R-9Sk2 has gained immediate acclaim among pilots as a powerful craft able to attack across a wide range.
The wide range of its attack and ability to take out multiple Bydo at the same time meant that the craft was highly rated by the military. Thus they drafted development plans for a successor craft with enhanced output and range. However, the plans were never implemented.
It was extremely difficult to achieve the level of output requested by the military with the technology available at the time. Further, when it was advised that flame weaponry was inferior to optical weaponry in terms of operations and maintenance, development was shifted to the R-9W series. Development of the R-9Sk was brought to a close and the team disbanded, but the lead developer still maintained his faith in the potential of flame weaponry and there are mutterings that he continued his research in secret.
Craft History 51: OFX-2 Valkyrie
Since widespread deployment of the R-9 series, development of the next major fighter began. The OFX-2 is a test model, designed and produced based on the data from OF-1 which has already performed very successfully in battle.
As the OF-1 was an unusual project, only limited resources were allocated, and the Wave Cannon's output had to be limited. The main objective with this craft was therefore to raise the Wave Cannon's power to a standard level. However, data from the OF-1's day-to-day combat operations demonstrated that it was extremely difficult to optimize its extraordinarily complicated control system. Despite a Standard W. Cannon being installed in the end, difficulties with securing additional resources has meant that successor models have continued to use the same Wave Cannon.
Further, the OF Force was altered as an armament replacement test and all of the lasers were renewed to stronger ones. As a result, many OF-1 pilots expressed a desire to switch to the OFX-2, but the craft never got past the testing stage in the end.
Craft History 52: R-9Leo2
Further desires to push performance enhancements of the Psy Bit and to boost the reduced output of the Wave Cannon led to the development of the R-9Leo2 LEO II. While the technology was based off knowledge taken from a parallel dimension, the development team worked tirelessly with the hope that they could exceed their trans-dimensional peers.
The completed Psy Bit + can charge more Wave energy, which dramatically boosts its homing attack's operation time after being fired. As a result, the Psy Bit + has increased destructive power and has become known as the superior Bit.
The members of the Bit Development Team (known as the BBB) all received medals for their achievements and were given half a year's paid leave. Neil Gilbert, leader of the BBB team was promoted from First Lieutenant to Lieutenant and took up his post as the 8th Director of Mars Base II Areus.
It is easy to focus on the Psy Bit + of the R-9Leo2 but the Force performance was also improved and its lasers enhanced. This a top-class craft offering balanced performance all-round. However, because of its unusual construction, few have been manufactured and only a precious few highly qualified pilots from the military can handle it.
Craft History 53: TL-1A Iason
The TL-1A is a humanoid craft that was formally deployed after the test craft TL-T. The Wave Cannon has also been converted from the test type to one suited for battle.
Moreover, it was called IASON after the legendary hero of Greek mythology. When lason was only young, his father the king died and his uncle succeeded to the throne. lason was then raised by the wise centaur, Chiron. Later, as an adult, lason returned to his hometown to reclaim the throne, but his uncle was reluctant to step down and gave a condition for the throne that got Iason off on his famous adventures.
The TL-1A's name seems to hint at great ambition, yet there are no records of it playing a key role in any major battles, nor of ace pilots setting any records with it. Its main role turned out to be serving as the successor to the TL-T and the predecessor to the TL-1B. The craft's greatness must nonetheless be acknowledged in light of the great impact made by its successors and the technology created during the development of these craft.
Craft History 54: TL-1B Asklepios
The TL-1B takes the TL-1A as a foundation and applies a mirror coating to the Force, giving it higher defense against Beam weaponry. Although its attack capability only slightly improves on its predecessor, the mirror shield Force can reflect enemy fire. This attack-reflecting feature is also used in Bydo-Type craft made from liquid metal.
The name of this craft is ASKLEPIOS. It was named after a well-known doctor from Greek myth. Asklepios received his education from the centaur Chiron and joined lason's adventure. It is said he even brought people back from the dead with his amazing medical talents. The lord of the underworld, Hades, protested to the omnipotent Zeus and Asklepios lost his life as a result.
However, Zeus recognized Asklepios's achievements and in death he was brought to the heavens to become the constellation of Ophiuchus. This is the reason some of the TL-1 B pilots have decals of Asklepios on their craft.
The Hybrid Wave Cannon system installed on this craft uses a Split W. Cannon and Mini Burst W. Cannon, and it has sufficient functionality to supplement the laser armament fired via the Force. However, this Hybrid Wave Cannon Mk. 3 is extremely costly and this was partly why, even among the low number of TL-series craft, such a small number of TL-1Bs were manufactured.
Craft History 55: R-11S Tropical Angel
The R-11S uses the armaments of the R-11B and is optimized for urban areas and narrow fighting environments. The most notable feature is the addition of supplementary rotating booster below the cockpit. This has immensely improved its turning performance. However, the craft was insufficiently equipped to counteract the g-force resulting from rapid rotation. Pilots would therefore suffer from low levels of brain oxygen, and there were numerous cases of them blacking out. There was some experimental development with g- force-resistant suits, but none managed to fully solve the problem and so pilots have had to restrict their rotation speed.
It is equipped with an enhanced Force that offers higher output than the R-11B. The Lock-On W. Cannon also has enhancements in its number of cannons and control computer, meaning that it can lock on to a greater number of simultaneous targets. However, the g-force issues meant that the craft was never manufactured in significant numbers. Whistler Space then proceeded with the development of a new model in the R-11 series.
Craft History 56: OF-3 Garuda
The OF-2 underwent tests with the goals of replacing its Force and increasing its Wave Cannon's output. Concurrently, the engineers working on the craft's engine aimed to miniaturize its fusion reactor. All of these efforts paid off, resulting in an enhanced Orbital Strike Unit suitable for battle deployment, named the OF-3 GARUDA.
Completion of the OF-3 was announced to the OF-1 pilots who had been convened as an OF squad. Inevitably, what attracted their attention was the OF Force III. The OFX-2 had never been deployed in battle and the lack of an OF Force II had been a disappointment. Finally, here was the long-awaited weaponry!
However, it was a unique weapon that required care and attention. The new mechanism controlled the direction of attack through the craft's movements, pushing the skills of the OF squad to the limits, and unfortunately, large numbers of experienced pilots resigned in the pre-deployment training. In some cases, the less experienced young pilots who were flexible performed better than those with more experience behind them.
The weaponry was difficult to control and the pre- deployment training was harsh. This combination meant that all OF-3 pilots who made it to the battlefield were considered the best of the best, and they created numerous stories of valor on various battlefields.
Craft History 57: R-9DP3 Kenrokuen
The quest has borne fruit. The R-9DP3 KENROKUEN. This was the crystallization of the engineer's dream and the miracle men had dreamed of, a legend that would be told for eternity.
The engineers who created the recoil mitigation tech of the R-9DP2 challenged themselves to further improve the performance of the spike launch mechanism. The first task was to improve the explosive charge to produce a faster and more powerful launch. After much trial and error, they successfully developed a new nitro compound alloy that could generate a detonation velocity of 1.5x traditional tech. However, this new material was particularly unstable and without a continuous application of a specific amount of energy, it would immediately collapse.
The method they used to counter this was to equip a reactor to the craft's launch mechanism to continuously generate energy right up until the point of launch. In other words, they generated a new form of detonation charge for the craft and made it more stable. At the time, it was a complete revolution and a push into an unknown field. The Wave energy-powered reactor takes time to generate a sufficient charge, but once it reaches maximum energy, it gives the Pile Bunker unsurpassed penetrative power.
The R-9DP3 gained instant fame when it busted through the super-strong armor of the A-Class Bydo that the fleet had tried in vain to penetrate. The name "KENROKUEN" comes from the magnificent garden loved by the engineering officer who had promoted the project.
Craft History 58: R-9WZ Disaster Report
The development team working on Wave Cannon research attempted to harness the enormous destructive power natural disasters could have. The R-9WZ DISASTER REPORT was given the code Z, despite being a prototype, because it was deemed impossible to improve it any further.
The Cataclysm W. Cannon is a disaster-grade weapon that can completely decimate the enemy, but there are many concerned about the risks it poses. Mere weeks after its completion, strict conditions were applied for the use of the Cataclysm W. Cannon.
Because it has never been used in actual battle, there are few pilots who know the terrible mental burden accompanied with piloting this craft. However, all of the pilots who participated in the armament tests during its development and witnessed its destructive capacity have refused to ever be in the craft or near it again.
Craft History 59: R-13A2 Hades
This is the R-13A but with its Wave Cannon replaced with a superior model and higher battle capabilities. All aspects of this craft's predecessor model were thoroughly reviewed and refined to achieve a balance between excellent destructive and defense capabilities. The craft may be an improved model of the R-13A and was very close to formal adoption, but the project was suddenly pulled. (See the file on the R-13A for details.)
There are pilots who have used this craft in testing at some bases, albeit very few. One of them was Second Lieutenant Sammy Matsushita of the Space Base Utopinel that orbits Jupiter. Piloting the R-13A2, he achieved some stunning battle results during a short period of time and earned a promotion to First Lieutenant. However, after being provided with an R-13B, he was involved in a tragic accident.
Craft History 60: R-11S2 No Chaser
The R-11S2 was developed as a result of a thorough review of the R-11S's g-force problems. The canopy was made larger, improving the pilot's field of vision. It was also installed with a Lock-On W. Cannon enhanced even beyond the R-11 S's. As it is installed with the latest Block III technology, the R-1152 is able to secure even more targets at the same time.
When rebellion broke out on Mars and revolutionary groups spread across the solar system, the Earth Allied Forces struggled in the ensuing guerrilla warfare in which the revolutionary forces deployed the R-1182 that they had seized. The Earth Allied Forces had particular trouble with the strategies deployed by the revolutionary forces that compensated for lack of numbers by forcing conflict in urban areas and narrow battlefields. It was, however, a magnificent demonstration of the R-11S2's performance.
The craft manifested an overwhelming presence on complicated battlefields, and it is easily the pinnacle craft of the series, but it never reached the production numbers of the A and B models. This was the last R-11 series fighter to be formally deployed.
After a lull, a greater number of increasingly dangerous Bydo began to infiltrate the solar system, and the R-11 struggled to hold its own. The military therefore ordered the cessation of the R-11's manufacture, and pivoted to developing craft that incorporated Bydo elements. It feels very ironic that while the R-11 fell out of favor, its rival craft the R-13 entered mass production, was equipped with Bydo elements, further developed, deployed, and ended up causing the events of the mission "Last Dance."