As the Retaliator was gradually introduced in the JAF's front line units, the CEGACouncil decided they needed a new, more modern exo-armor design to face it. Althoughefficient, the most recent updates of the Syreen were hopelessly outclassed, so the research was oriented in a new direction.
First, arrangements were made with the Martian Federation to buy two of their old Defenders. These were moved with great secrecy to the LAC base in the Tycho Crater to be deassembled and studied. Then, using the basic frame as a guide, the engineers set out to create an exo-armor which could stand against current Jovian designs and win.
The head unit was completely redesigned, scrapping the front and lateral sensor arrays of the Defender and replacing them with a single large plate. Although this somewhat limited the field of vision of the pilot, it was easier to maintain and made room for an anti-missile system as well as two massdrivers for close combat. The armor plate covering the neck unit was retained for additional protection.
It was decided that a large railgun would provide the main firepower, even if the ammunition supply would be limited. Unfortunetly, the hip missiles had to bedropped to clear some tonnage. The legmounted missile canisters were retainedbut the light rockets were replaced by more powerful ones. A pair of medium missiles completed the armament.
Variations
Although the Wyvem is a recent design, several variations are already into production in an effort to modernize the Armed Forces as fast as possible. The most commonly seen modfication is the CEA45R. which replaces the railgun with a large rocket canister for massive bombardment capacities.
It is unclear whether the CEGA plans to make the Wyvern their standard exo-armor, but it is likely that it will not replace the faithful Syreen and Gnome for at least a few years.
Service Record
The Wyem has not seen true combat yet, but wargarnes with Venusian HDF troops have proved the soundness of the overall design. Its only major flaw is the lack of an energy-based main weapon system, which greatly limits the operational range of the unit.
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