The HF-Trebuchet, a multi-role hybrid fighter developed and produced by the Prime Earth Collective, saw service during the Second SepTerran War.

Following the conclusion of the First SepTerran War, the Prime Earth recognized the shortcomings of the Artemis multi-role hybrid fighter design compared to contemporary space and atmospheric fighter models (such as the Arkebus, Endevaur 2, and Blackhawk). Consequently, the Prime Earth Ministry of Defense was tasked with developing a new hybrid multi-role fighter capable of matching the capabilities of modern designs.

While the original designer of the Trebuchet, along with all information regarding its construction and development, remains classified to the general public and the wider universe, basic information about its capabilities and functions is known.

Similar to its predecessor, the Artemis, the Trebuchet is a highly modular platform, allowing it to be equipped with various weapon configurations to suit the needs of different missions. Its standard electronic equipment includes both energy shields for energy weapon absorption and deflection, as well as contact shields to protect against ballistic and missile threats. It boasts modern targeting systems and sophisticated radar technologies, significantly extending its effective engagement range. The fighter is equipped with a single high-power hydrogen jet engine for atmospheric travel, supplemented by an afterburner for additional thrust, a feature absent in the Artemis. It also incorporates modern twin Ion engines, providing excellent maximum speed in the vacuum of space without encountering the efficiency problems of previous generation ion engines. The use of an Anti Gravity Drive (AGD) allows the Trebuchet to maintain the same level of agility in a planetary atmosphere as it possesses in space.

Like the Artemis, the Trebuchet lacked an ejection system as it was primarily piloted by disposable clone drones. However, unlike the Artemis, a separate variant of the Trebuchet was developed for human pilots, incorporating an ejection system. This variant was intended for human flight commanders to lead squadrons of clones into battle, facilitating command and control.

The Trebuchet, in this example, is equipped for multi-role atmospheric combat, featuring six 20mm rapid-firing autocannons, two atmospheric 5-shot long-range missile tubes, two atmospheric 3-shot short-range missile tubes, and two atmospheric 3-shot air-to-ground missile tubes.

Although development of the Trebuchet concept began towards the end of the First SepTerran War, production did not commence until 3090, when prototypes passed inspection and were cleared for use. By the Queen's Crusade of 3092, also known as the Second SepTerran War, the Trebuchet had not been produced in sufficient numbers to equip the Prime Earth Army, making it a rare sight on the battlefield until 3105, when proper mass production began. This delay was attributed to sabotage and espionage by the Septan Empire.

The Trebuchet's performance during the Second SepTerran War impressed many observers on both sides of the conflict. It proved highly effective in both atmospheric and space combat, unlike the Artemis, which suffered a significant decrease in combat effectiveness in these environments.

Unlike the Artemis, whose technical documents and blueprints were leaked, the Trebuchet's development and production were kept highly confidential. Even today, little is known about the Trebuchet project, leading to speculation about how the Prime Earth managed to create such an advanced fighter.

Regardless of its origins, the HF-Trebuchet remains a uniquely Prime Earth construct that will likely endure for centuries to come.

Long time no see! Thought I'd make a new fighter design for one of my other factions, hope you enjoy flying it as much as I enjoyed building it! :D