Archer ARC-8M

The Archer ARC-8M is a 70-ton missile boat that fights at long range, a 3067 rebuild of the 2458 ARC-1A original. A 280 fusion engine replaces the earlier 255, lifting cruising speed from 32 to 43 km/h and top speed from 54 to 65, and endo steel structure stands in for the standard frame. Where the ARC-1A carried a bare medium laser in each arm, the ARC-8M mounts ER medium lasers there and adds a third in the head, with an ER Large Laser in the center torso. The twin LRM 20 racks give way to LRM 15 launchers in each torso, now fitted with an Artemis IV fire-control system and CASE in both the left and right torso. Standard armor replaces the original's primitive plating, and 12 double heat sinks stand in place of the 10 single sinks. It keeps its identity as a command 'Mech, with reinforced battle fists on both arms and a stable firing platform. Earthwerks-FWL, Inc. builds it at Calloway VI.