As the NEO began their civil war with Earth, the newly-formed Earth Federation was amazed by the new war machines they saw. They were a little worried as well. The Syreen was hastily designed to be a stopgap measure to the recent colonial advances in exo-armor technology. Using an old OTV (Orbital Transfer Vehicule) model, the Earth Federation technicians built a legless and crude craft capable of defending itself in hand-to-hand combat as well as carrying anti-ship missiles.
Although actual models use a custom designed booster, the original prototypes of 0079 were built around decommisioned OTVs. This caused endless problems (as well as one explosion) before the project leaders finally decided to build new chassis for the vehicles. Because of the original nature of its propulsion system, the Syreen is capable of high acceleration, but suffers from poor range and maneuverability.
The latter was improved by the recent addition of vectoring plates to the main nozzle. These plates need constant attention however, and many technicians complain they are spending too much time on them.
After several successful simulated ambushes in the Asteroid Belt, the vehicle was dubbed Syreen for its appearance and its ability to lure opponents into a well-prepared trap using its ECM pod. The pod was too costly to use on all EA, so it was later decided that only the officer variant would carry it on the production model. The most amazing piece of equipment is surely the Active Close Defense Laser System (ACDLS for short),a computer-guided, variable range laser array composed of four independently focusing lenses. These serve as the Syreen's main ranged weapon, except when an opponent approaches the Syreen within 25 meters: the computer then automatically takes over and fires at the new threat. This is beginning to cause problems as Syreens routinely open fire on friendiy units, acting on misread IFF signals.
Variations
Being a jury-rigged machine built only to be replaced by more advanced designs, the Syreen was never adapted to other operational roles. Apart from the Commander type, which carries an ECM pod on the back of its head, no variationswere constructed. All Syreens share the ability to use the SOBU-1 rocket booster to launch from a ground facility to low orbit. The ACDLS is covered and cannotbe used while the booster is attached, however; the pilot must first jettison his SOBU to fire.
Service Record
The first incident involving Syreens occured during the testing period when a small pirate cruiser mistook the Earth Federation team for prospectors. The pirates were quite surprised when what they thought to be mineral-gathering shuttles turned out to be a pack of dangerous combat vessels. Needless to say, the cruiser was vaporized after only a few seconds of combat. After the Syreen officially entered service, things calmed down. Other than police and patrol duty, the machine never sees much action nowadays.
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