The Orion was first built in 2456 as the ultimate BattleMech. The Orion is a dependable workhorse design that can handle almost any combat role, thanks to its mix of long- and short-range weaponry and its respectable 14 tons of armor. As BattleMech technology has improved, the Orion has been surpassed by other 'Mechs, but still finds itself utilized extensively on the modern battlefield, especially within the FWLM. The Orion has a maximum ground speed of 64.8 km/h, which is average for 'Mechs in the heavy weight class. Technicians love the Orion, because its spacious interior makes performing repairs and maintenance far easier than many other 'Mechs.
"A poor man's Atlas." -Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade, p. 83
The ON1-K was the first Orion variant. It has the most energy hardpoints with two in each arm. Two missile hardpoints are in the left torso. The ballistic hardpoint in the right torso is standard across all Orion variants.
The ON1-K was the first Orion variant. It has the most energy hardpoints with two in each arm. Two missile hardpoints are in the left torso. The ballistic hardpoint in the right torso is standard across all Orion variants.
The ON1-M is an upgrade of the ON1-K using recovered Star League technology (Lostech). The 300 STD engine has been replaced with a 300 XL and it now uses Double Heat Sinks. An LB 10-X takes the place of the AC 10. The freed up tonnage goes towards upgrading the LRM 15 to an LRM 20, CASE is added to both side torsos, and a NARC Beacon added.
In terms of hardpoints, the ON1-M exchanges one energy hardpoint in the left arm for a missile hardpoint and adds a missile hardpoint to the center torso. However, it loses one missile hardpoint in the left torso.
Instantly recognizable from across the battlefield, the ON1-P "Protector" brings a varied loadout that makes it a capable combatant at any range. Like all Hero Mechs, the Protector grants a 30% C-Bill bonus.
Similar to the ON1-V, the ON1-VA sacrifices the LRM launcher for more heat sinks and armor. As a result, it has no weapon hardpoints in the left torso, but has one energy and two missile hardpoints in each arm.
Similar to the ON1-V, the ON1-VA sacrifices the LRM launcher for more heat sinks and armor. As a result, it has no weapon hardpoints in the left torso, but has one energy and two missile hardpoints in each arm.
