HLF-Prime Hellfire for Battletech

Following the development of Heavy Laser technology, Clan Star Adder scientists sought a test-bed on which to mount the lasers. For this purpose, they resurrected the Lupus, a first-generation OmniMech that had been relegated to second-line units or put into storage in Brian Caches. Seeking to rebuild the under-strength post-Burrock Absorption Star Adder touman, upon learning the heavy lasers worked so well on the Lupus, Khan Cassius N'Buta ordered more Lupuses be refitted en masse. From 3058 on, Arcadia BattleMech Plant CM-T4 had refitted over a hundred Hellfires for Clan Star Adder as well future-Snake Alliance allies Clan Cloud Cobra. Deployed in significant numbers among the Star Adders' second-line galaxies, a moderate number have fallen into the hands of other Clans who've faced the Adders.


For weaponry, the Hellfire utilizes an array of heavy lasers. At medium range, a Series 4D-2 Heavy Large Laser and twin Series 7JA ER Medium Lasers are the go-to weapons. The armament excels at short range, when two Series 6A Medium Heavy Lasers and two Series 14 k. II Heavy Small Lasers can be brought into play. The most significant different between the testbed and final refit models is the addition of three "Longbow" III LRM-10 launchers to provide some ranged firepower. Though the heavy lasers are inherently inaccurate, the incredible damage output makes this 'Mech feared. Seventeen double heat sinks are woefully inadequate to keep heat levels under control, so MechWarriors must take extreme caution.

To carry such a heavy loadout, the Hellfire uses a smaller engine than the Lupus, so it only has a top speed of 65 km/h. Though originally intended to retain the Lupus's 300-rated engine, Kappa Provisional Galaxy Commander Jenica Turgidson who was overseeing development insisted on a smaller engine, arguing that as the Hellfire was intended for defensive roles it needed firepower ahead of speed. She did agree to the inclusion of MASC for quick bursts of extra speed to close with or retreat from the enemy. The Hellfire mounts nine tons of Ferro-Fibrous armor.

Despite its initial success, the combat service of the Hellfire has not be flaw free. Aside from the sensor interference caused by firing its signature Heavy Lasers, a number of battlefield reports indicate the heavy laser tubes can violently rupture in the heat of battle. The 'Mech also experiences a fifteen percent higher rate of MASC failure than usual, though technicians have yet to determine whether this is due to the age of the Lupus chassis or if this is something caused by the Heavy Lasers.

Model is printed in a grey resin and supplied with a base.

Mech design by Matt Mason.