Ballista

The ballista (pl. ballistae) is one of the oldest siege weapon designs remaining in common use in Azeroth. A mainstay of human artillery, they operate on the same principles as a massive crossbow, utilizing the energy of elastic wood under tension to propel a large projectile at speed for significant distances. While light ballistae have largely been replaced by more flexible gunpowder-based weapons, the heavy ballistae of Stormwind's army remain in use today as a counter-measure for the Horde's larger members and allies: Tauren and Ogres. Ballistae crews are instructed to target such large enemies over other targets, barring enemy aircraft and Kodos, while leaving the more numerous Orcs and Trolls for lighter weaponry. Such massive weapons - often with spans of over twelve feet - are reliant on ironwood from Northeron to withstand the stresses of firing.
A similar, though distinct, weapon among the allies of humanity is the Elven Springald.
Category:Siege Weapons