UD-4Z "Cheyenne" Utility Dropship

== Out with the old ==
The UD-4Z is a continuation of the classic and well-known "Cheyenne" series of Marine dropships. The UD-4Z was designed from the ground up to replace the UD-4M due to its lackluster carrying capacity. 
The UD-4Z was phased out by mid 2194 and replaced with the more modern UD-4K model. 
== Design ==
Designed as a dedicated heavy payload dropship, the UD-4Z is a significantly bigger and less armed variant of the UD-4M. Sacrificing its deployable weapon pylons and additional combat capabilities in order to better serve its role as the primary strategic airlift platform, the UD-4Z leverages the latest developments in material design to reduce stress on the airframe, even after transporting hulking beasts such as a fully kitted-out M58A3 MBT.
=== Powerplant ===
The two RT-606 turbines prominently displayed on the front of the aircraft feed into a large duct system traversing the flanks of the aircraft. Feeding directly into four independently actuating VTOL thrusters, the turbines are capable of generating enough thrust to produce lift, even under maximum payload conditions. 
A pair of two combined-cycle ramjets located at the rear of the aircraft enable supersonic flight up to Mach 1.8 in atmosphere, and are capable of single stage to orbit (SSTO) takeoff under nominally earthlike conditions. 
=== Avionics ===
Both the pilot and copilot sensor suites contain advanced datalink and targeting systems enabling rapid target acquisition and enhanced navigation capabilities in adverse weather conditions. This is critical to the Cheyenne’s ability to conduct both manned and unmanned landing missions with minimal risk. 
=== Armament ===
A monster of an aircraft, the UD-4Z has more guns and missiles than some dedicated gunships. On the front directly below the cockpit is a 20mm chain gun. The aircraft also boasts an impressive 46 Gremlin-30 missiles, making the UD-4Z adept at supporting Marines with overwhelming firepower. The aircraft also has a limited anti-tank capability, as the UD-4Z has 4 Hellhound guided missiles. 
Category:Aerospace
Category:Vehicles