POL-002b Pneumatic Ordinance launcher

== Overview ==
Pneumatic based projectile launcher contained within a rucksack sized enclosure. Plastics based interior mechanisms for weight and general cost, although reinforced variants ("a" and "c", for example) do exist and are popular for exo-atmospheric or low ambient pressure environments. Base PSI hovers around 80 pounds, however the valve is rated for 1500 PSI. Projectile is a small camera surrounded by foam to create a solid seal within the barrel as well as minimize damage to the device upon landing. Base projectile sends a live feed to a paired screen, and has encrypted internal storage. Has a retrieval beacon with a unique GPS scrambler, projecting several random dots within a 15km radius. The dots each have randomized codes. The "true" beacon code is transmitted to a predetermined device, either a TACpad or any other secure computing device. Optional tethering possible, using single core 1mm diameter reinforced wiring. Max spool length 450 feet. 
The fully battle-ready leafhopper weighs between 15 to 35 pounds, with the exterior casing measuring 20"x12"x10". Said casing fully encloses the air canister, valve and barrel. The barrel itself is on the top left corner of the enclosure, protruding by 1" and covered by a waterproof cap in order to keep the interior dry. A pressure gauge is optional, as an HUD display equivalent exists, however there is an area on the casing where one can fit such a gauge, generally on the rear of the pack, where easily viewable to allies. Mounted on the right side of the "b" variant is a manual air pump for refilling the internal canister. Generally, this pump is operated by standing on its base and pushing pulling the pump’s handle. Very simple and dependable design that can easily be fixed on the field. The model "b" focuses on open source and ease of use/maintenance.
The "a" and "c" variants are generally equipped with a miniature compressor, powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, however it is possible to use a manual pump with simple modification.
=== Distinctions between variants: ===
Although all models share a near identical build, the "a" variant holds the same PSI amount as the unmodified base type. This is the most popular of leafhoppers, praised for its durability, dependability and modularity. The UNSC ground forces and marines employ this unit in limited amounts to recon squads on-ground with earth-like conditions.
The "c" variant has an enlarged air canister that can be hot-swapped with another thanks to a bayonet system at the tank's collar. This is used for prolonged engagements behind enemy lines or in low ambient pressure, hostile environments. The leafhopper "c" is able to operate within high gravity environments, where a stronger propulsion force is required to launch the projectile at an acceptable distance.
== History ==
Developed by a small group of retired army and law enforcement personnel on Beta Hydri VI. The first functional prototype, the XPPL-001d, was created in the 3rd quarter of 2550. Originally, the device was intended for use by rangers and explorers as a way to identify an objective from a distance, as well as being an emergency beacon, capable of broadcasting standard law enforcement codes to request assistance or announce a message. The prototype caught the attention of ONI in 2551, when operators intercepted a signal from a remote location announcing the presence of a small, insurrectionist bunker. A team was sent to the position of the beacon and met with Meghan Ravezq, a veteran of the UEG colony guard. By presenting the recorded footage from the projectile she launched, the team were quick to find the stronghold, arresting the rebels housed within it. 
ONI team leader Jakob M'gulnau was pleasantly surprised to see that the insurrectionist forces were unaware of their discovery, talking all into custody without lethal means. M'gulnau commended Ravezq for her quick and stealthy actions. Following an interview and examination of Ravezq's equipment directed by the team leader she encountered before, the UNSC bought the launcher's plans and hired the group who created the equipment as 3rd party developers in order to keep refining it. After primary acquisition, Chalybs Defense Solutions took charge of production. 
The designation "leafhopper" was given to the pack by a squad of marines who were using it during the battle of earth in order to penetrate through the foliage of the russian tundra. This trial run of what would become the "d" variant confirmed its utility, locating and coordinating an attack on a covenant forward-operations base without the enemy forces being alerted. In 2553, the Leafhopper was put into mass service. 
It is credited as being one of the last few pieces of kit assigned to ODST units before their replacement with the spartan-IV program. Modified versions following the dissolution of the ODST program were made to be compatible with MJOLNIR GEN-2 armor; increased funding allowed the original development team to miniaturize and refine the system in order to take advantage of the armor's on-board power supply and faculties. Though production slowed over the years, the Leafhopper remains a valuable accessory to any scouting team. Its simple construction and concept assures that it will continue to be in service for many years to come.
Category:Weapons
Category:UNSCDF infantry weapons
Category:UNSC
Category:Humans
Category:Non-lethal