Homeworld Build 09 — Ion Array Frigate
After our detour back into the Battletech universe, we now return to the Homeworld fleets project. Characterized by its ion collector panels on each side of the hull, the Ion Array Frigates were one of the most recognizable ships in the early game, where they harassed the Exiles at every opportunity.
The existence of these vessels in the fleets of the Turanic Raiders seem to show a tendency for militaries in this setting to develop long-range ion-based sniper ships to strike the larger enemy units before they can get in range. However, the Ion Array Frigate is based on archaic technology compared to its peers, the iconic panels being used to focus free ions which are then accelerated and weaved into a powerful beam.
However, older vessels of this class were woefully outdated by the time of the Homeworld conflict, taking heavy losses. In the following years, the ever inventive Turanic Raiders would upgrade their ships with cloak generators to protect them from detection and attacks at a distance. Once found, though, these ships are still easy to destroy.
Compared to the massive Attack Carrier build, this is a much smaller structure. It uses 23 parts plus the base and it is really easy to make. It is, thus, the light ship option for the Turanic Raiders (Alliance) fleet. You can find more about the fleet building system I’m using at One Page Rules:
Hope you have enjoyed this build. Although small, I think it turned out neat.
Next week I would like to try something special for the Holidays. Sadly, lack of time stops me from doing something as ambitious as what I did last year. Fear not, I still have plans to finish the Halo fleets (the Constructed still need their due). This year it will something much simpler, but also quite fun, I hope.
So stay tuned, next week we’ll have entire fleets to check out!
