XV46 Vanguard Void Battlesuit - Armament: Because of the terrain XV46 Vanguard Void Battlesuits are expected to operate through, they are well armed for close quarters combat and laden with powerful short-ranged weapons and advanced defensive systems. As with most forms of T'au Battlesuit, the XV46 features advanced communications systems and sensors built into the primary sensor cluster that is the battlesuit's "head."These sensors, which consist of a number of variable spectrum sensors and scanners, allow the battlesuit to detect hidden enemy units and their movement; information that can be transmitted back to Tau command units. The sensors also allow the battlesuit to operate effectively in the dark conditions that are common with space hulks.All XV46 Vanguard Void Battlesuits are also protected by a dense nano-crystalline alloy armour named Fio'tak in the Tau Lexicon. This advanced alloy has a high impact resistant structure, which makes it extremely resilient. The material is also lightweight, which keeps the battlesuit quite light despite its bulk.This reduced weight means it can operate effectively using its T'au Jetpack for manoeuvrability and dropping from transport aircraft, like the Orca and Manta. The Jetpack, which is another common feature, combines anti-gravitic and jet technology to make this battlesuit extremely agile for its size.Indeed, given the awkward and often-hostile environments they face, Vanguard Battlesuits are equipped to move primarily by Jetpack, and are also heavily reinforced with life support systems.The XV46 Vanguard Void Battlesuit's primary armament consists of a Flame Projector to repel hordes of infantry at close range, a Burst Cannon for sustainable high-strength firepower, and a Fusion Torch for cutting through any obstacles blocking access ways; although it can also be used to devastating effect against enemies as a potent close combat weapon.All these battlesuit weapon systems are fully integrated and supplied by continuous, high-yield power relays and ammunition hoppers. XV46 Vanguard Void Battlesuits are also designed with advanced recoil absorption technology, meaning that they can fire their weapons at maximum capacity and with maximum accuracy, even when on the move.However, the XV46 is not only equipped with potent offensive weapons, but also a range of advanced defensive support systems. These include an array of electroshock repulsors, photon charge launchers and wide-burst gravity pulse generators mounted across the surface of the battlesuit armour.These systems are activated by subconscious mind-impulse triggers to ensure the fastest response to an enemy attack. They are primarily used to repel foes seeking to engage the pilots of the XV46 in close combat by forcing and shunting them away, and also potentially stunning them.As a final layer of protection, the pilot sits within a shock-proof ejection pod whilst using the battlesuit. The pod will eject the pilot in the event of catastrophic damage to the battlesuit, and is programmed to return the pilot to the safety of the T'au boarding craft.XV46 Vanguard Void Battlesuits are commonly accompanied by DX-11 Exploratory Drones on T'au exploration expeditions into space hulks. These Tau Drones are controlled via a Drone Controller support system, and are used to scout ahead and roam an unexplored area, all the while transmitting information on what they find back to the battlesuit's pilot.