+++ NAME +++
STIRGE: A mythical creature, related to the Strix, with the wings of a bat, the horns of a goat, and the head and body of a small demon or imp. Along with the the Strix, the STIRGE is believed to have inspired the concept of the gargoyle.

+++ TYPE +++
The STIRGE is an extremely small, advanced technology stealth fighter and reconnaissance aircraft capable of reaching high speeds and altitudes. It is primarily designed to infiltrate enemy positions in order to deliver individual agents behind the lines. At only 10,000 pounds fully loaded, and with a length of less than 20 feet, the STIRGE is the smallest warplane the Archon Chancery has ever designed.

+++ ACTIVATION GROUPS +++
1 - BOOSTER ENGINES: Engages the CONSTELLATION integrated engine system, which includes an enhanced gyro-stabilization unit (on whenever AG-1 is active), a pair of XENON low visibility cruise engines (normal throttle), a RADON extreme thrust boost engine (VTOL bar up), and the anti-gravity GRAVITON VTOL motor (VTOL bar down).
2 - MAIN LASER BATTERY: Activates the DRAKE's main heavy weaponry, a single COSMIC RAY gamma radiation cannon.
3 - MAIN ROCKET BATTERY: A pair of JAVELIN unguided rockets.
4 - AIR to AIR MISSILES: Activates the FANG advanced AA missile system (Interceptor based; total missile load: 6 units).
5 - AIR to GROUND MISSILES: Activates the TALON advanced AG cruise missile system (Cleaver based; total missile load: 4 units).
6 - ANTI-AIRCRAFT GUNS: Activates a pair of STAR FIRE III fore and aft anti-aircraft guns located midway along the wings.
7 - INFILTRATOR: Activates and ejects the AEOLUS infiltrator pod - a small one person internally gimbaled sphere suspended from a parachute. Deactivating the AG releases the pod from the parachute.
8 - DEFAULT SYSTEMS: Deactivating this group disconnects the main UMBRA reactor, deactivating all active sensors, as shown by extinguishing the various engine, radar, and running lights.

First Published: May 25, 2020