H.E.M.P.
Weapons utilize improved discharge capacitors, and small
rapid firing barrels to produce a fire effect akin to that of an archaic shotgun
blast. They were developed by the Kregnaugh Corporation shortly before the construction
of the first Death Star. They were originally intended as an anti missile
system. But the targeting computer and limited range and high power draw
sunk the project. The research was stopped until recently. The design
team saw another possibility, if they increased the power and decreased the
fire rate, along with improving the firing capacitors, they could increase the
range, and accuracy to make a defensive close support weapon. The targeting computer
and the range limitations still make this unfeasible to use as an antimissile
system however. The finished product, is a blaster cannon or ion cannon that
has tremendous stopping power, improved hit probability, and short range. These
weapons suit them selves well, to high speed attacks by snub fighters, and defensive
applications against multiple attackers on larger ships. Due to the short
range and high power consumption these are unsuitable to capitol scale applications.
H.E.M.P.
Weapons shoot out many small blasts of energy in a very
short amount of time, a target is usually hit multiple times and incurs more
damage than a hit with a standard weapon. The draw back is it's short range,
and high power rate, and heavier weight. These are capable to be fire linked
like any other weapon.
GAME EFFECTS:
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20% heavier than a standard weapon
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2x's the power draw compared to non HEMP
version
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+4d to fire control
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Space range 3 maximum
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+4d damage @ space range 1:
+3d damage at space range 2: +2d damage at space range 3
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Fire is ineffective at ranges greater
than 3
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Capable of hitting multiple targets if
targets are closely grouped,
-
and within range and in the same firing
arc with no combined action penalties.
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Weapon cost x 1.5
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Available in
laser and
ion models
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Availability: 4 [hard to find]
The design has proven effective, but has been rejected by the
empire due to power and range considerations, but has become popular with free
traders and small freighter corporations.
Copyright 1998-99 S. Murphy