+++ NAME +++
AMPHIPTERE: A mythical and heraldic beast consider to be a small subspecies of dragon. The Amphiptere is usually depicted as a winged viper.

+++ TYPE +++
An interceptor type fighter designed for high speed, high altitude pursuit. They are primarily used as a countermeasure to long range bombers.

+++ ACTIVATION GROUPS +++
1 - BOOSTER ENGINES: Engages the CONSTELLATION integrated engine system, which includes an enhanced gyro-stabilization unit (on whenever AG-1 is active), and the GRAVITON anti-gravity VTOL motor (VTOL bar down).
2 - MAIN LASER BATTERY: Activates the AMPHIPTERE's main heavy weaponry: a pair of wing mounted QUASAR dual-beam Maser guns each flanked by a pair of SHOCK WAVE disruptor cannons.
3 - MAIN MISSILE WEAPON: A SAGITTARIUS 35 unit rocket launcher.
4 - AIR to AIR MISSILES: Activates the FANG advanced AA missile system (Interceptor based; total missile load: 16 units) and HOUNDSTOOTH short range AA missile system (Guardian based: total missile load: 8 units).
5 - AIR to GROUND MISSILES: Activates the TALON advanced AG missile system (Cleaver based; total missile load: 4 units).
6 - ANTI-AIRCRAFT GUNS: Activates a pair of STAR FIRE II fore and aft anti-aircraft laser pods, embedded in the fuselage.
7 - CLOSE SUPPORT WEAPON: a nose mounted METEOR STORM shard laser array.
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 3, 2020