V5.00FPhoebePHB-1A E:DDAPA?MH 5 3 5 2 5Jc3s, prb^  ! 7Lushann Redbeam7Lushann RedbeamtBurger Electronic7Lushann RedbeamvBurger Electronic7777 77ttt v  The engineers at Burger's Battlemechs have been intrigued with Hanse Davion's Triple Strength Myomer ever since it first successfully debuted in 3051. Having been able to finally obtain the technical specifications of the new myomer, the engineers decided to tinker with an old design and tweak it with the new TSM. And the PHB-1A Phoebe was born, named after the daughter of one of the engineers.Burger engineers decided to use an old but serviceable GHR-5H Grasshopper for a prototype. The first problem encountered was with incorporating the new myomer. Though the basic chasis was sound, numerous small modifications needed to be made in order to incorporate TSM, so in effect a new chassis had to be created utilizing Endo-steel, although it retained the basic shape of the Grasshopper. The Durallex Heavy armor of the old design converted well, and so it was retained, with 13.5 tons of armor added for maximum protection. The mobility of the old Grasshopper was a strong asset, and Burger engineers wisely decided to maintain and even improve that mobilitiy. Though the cost and survivability risks of the 350 XL engine are considerable, the engineers felt the increased mobility and tonnage for firepower were worth the costs. With a standard top speed of over 80 kph and a jump capacity of 150 meters, the prototype Phoebe is as fast or faster than most heavy mechs and even some mediums, certainly an advantage. With TSM properly activated, the Phoebe's max speed nudges close to 100 kph. Perhaps the most unique aspect of the prototype Phoebe is the weapons load. Three large lasers give considerable medium range firepower without ammunition concerns, while the hatchet can cleave nearby mechs in two if TSM is activated. As such, the Phoebe has impressive short and medium range power. Although the lack of long range firepower is concern, it can operate far from base for long periods of time, which suits its many varied roles well. These roles are enhanced with the addition of a Bloodhound Active Probe for detecting hidden units, and a C3 Slave unit for improved lance and company coordination.   #Only a few of the PHB-1A Phoebe have been built, and these are currently undergoing operational testing. It is too soon to tell if the results of testing would be favorable for further development. It is suspected that any such production would be limited due to the high cost of the mech.  [ none ]Burger's Battlemechs Tancredi IVFordDurallex HeavyBurger PHB Endo with TSMBurger CommPlusBurger TrackPlusBurger Special Type 3