Armaments

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The number of armaments of each size that the ship can be fitted with. Armaments come in two types: offensive weapon systems and defensive countermeasures. How these are used is explained later in this chapter. Just like modules, armaments can be removed and replaced, and they are also divided into size categories in the same way.

As opposed to internal modules, however, armaments are mounted on external hardpoints. Each ship can only be fitted with a specific number of armaments of each size. It’s possible to fit a smaller armament into a slot for a bigger one, but not the other way around.

Damage from ship armaments works in the same way as personal weapons, but the scale is different. Ship armaments can’t be used to target individuals.

The weapons described below are listed in the table to the right, which also includes prices. More ship armaments will be described in future modules.

ASAT Missiles -The typical main armament of military frigates, guided ASAT missiles have long range and pack a heavy punch. Their main drawback is that they take some time to reach their target, giving it a chance to shoot the missile down or deploy countermeasures. A missile battery can typically fit eight missiles. Individual missiles must be purchased separately.

Railgun - This close defense weapon uses superheated plasma to fire heavy metal rounds at extremely high speed, slicing through a ship’s armor like butter. Railguns are not very accurate but extremely deadly at short range. All armor counts as half (round up) against railguns.

Particle Beam Weapon - These weapons accelerate particles in a kinetic energy wave that causes damaging ionization, and can overheat electronics to the point of shutdown. Particle beam weapons function differently from other ship armaments. First, countermeasures have no effect against them. Second, their base Damage rating is reduced one step for each range category beyond CONTACT. Third, they inflict no hull damage, only component damage.

Orbital Mines - Cheap and very effective against unwanted boarding parties, orbital mines are a cost-effective short-range weapon. Individual mines must be purchased separately.

Tactical Nukes - Shipborne nukes are deployed from orbit to destroy planetary based targets, even entire colonies. A 50-megaton nuke will completely destroy all buildings and kill all living beings within a 10 km radius, and cause damage to buildings and people up to 100 km away from the center of detonation. In addition, a high-altitude detonation will create an electromagnetic pulse that destroys unshielded electronics. A nuclear missile battery can typically fit five missiles. Individual missiles must be purchased separately.

CIWS Laser Array - The defensive countermeasure CIWS—Close in Weapons System—is a laser array designed to target and shoot down incoming missiles, and even railgun rounds.

Sensor Drones - When launched, sensor drones create false sensor signatures that can maneuver at speed and can lure away incoming missiles and railgun targeting systems.

Sensor Decoys - These devices register false radar signatures to confuse weapons.