Name:  Large VSP Laser
Type (Category):  Weapon (Energy)
Technology:  Inner Sphere
Available To:  BattleMechs
Reference:  Tactical Operations: Advanced Units & Equipment (p. 133)

Description:
A variation of the pulse laser concept, the variable speed pulse laser (VSP laser) uses a series of rotating lenses and electronic cut-offs. This system enables the laser to track a target and alternate the speed with which it generates its pulses, based on range to target. This effect allows the VSP a greater range than a standard pulse laser, but at less damage potential and less accuracy, while such damage and accuracy are conversely increased at shorter ranges.

Game Rules:
In game play, Variable Pulse Lasers function as pulse lasers (and are compatible with targeting computers in the same fashion) in every way, except that the to-hit modifier and damage value changes depending upon the range bracket. At short range, VSP Lasers receive a –3 to-hit modifier and their maximum damage value, while at medium range, they receive a –2 to-hit modifier and reduced damage. At long range, a VSP Laser has a –1 to-hit modifier and delivers its lowest potential damage to the target.

Against conventional infantry, VSP Lasers are treated as direct-fire energy weapons, but add 1 point for attacking infantry at long range, 2 points for medium range and 3 points for short. For example, a Large VSP Laser (damage 11/9/7) attacking infantry at short range would inflict 5 casualties ([11 damage at short ÷ 10 = 1.1, round up to 2] + 3 for VSP short range = 5), while a Small VSP Laser hitting infantry at long range would strike only 2 troopers ([3 damage at long ÷ 10 = 0.3, round up to 1] + 1 for VSP long range = 2).

Construction Rules:
May be mounted on any available unit type in accordance with the unit’s standard construction rules.

Prototype Date:  3070
Production Date:  3072
Extinction Date:  —
Recovery Date:  —

WEAPONS AND EQUIPMENT COMBAT AND CONSTRUCTION TABLE
Additional Construction Rules

RULES LEVEL PROGRESSION TABLE
ALPHA STRIKE WEAPON CONVERSION TABLE
MTF Output → Weapon List:  Large VSP Laser
MTF Output → Critical Slot:  ISLargeVSPLaser
PDF Output → Critical Slot:  Large VSP Laser