WASP 2k

Wasp 2k - Second Generation Heavy Strike Fighter

As soon as Jericho Tactical Industries (JTI) began Project Cobalt, which eventually became the Winged Assault Pod, it was acknowledged that it would be a multi-role fighter for planetary patrol, defense and fleet escort. However, due to its small size the WASP and the small reactor core used, it was unable to provide shield power strong enough withstand the brutality of heavy assaults. The cockpit also was not designed for the rigors deep space patrols. As a result, JTI created Project Obsidian.

- Wasp 2k during deep space trials, Andris VII. Taken earlier this year. -

Drawing on the experience and technology already in place for Project Cobalt, Project Obsidian was able to make rapid advances in related fields. Following in the footsteps of it's "little brother", the Wasp 2k uses a neural interface to connect the pilot to the advanced control subsystems.

The Wasp 2k neural interface has been substantially decreased in size, requiring only a helmet and not the cumbersome sensor suite of the original Wasp systems. Being a truly "fly by thought" system, the Wasp 2k cockpit has no physical hand controls and all planetary and stellar navigational data is projected as a holographic image onto the interior of the canopy itself. In the event of neural interface failure, the cockpit is equipped with JTI's "3-space" control system allowing the pilot to use hand motions to simulate throttle and flight control. This is used only in the event of an emergency as reaction times, while still extremely fast, simply cannot approach the speeds of the neural system.

Pilot comfort and safety has been vastly improved in the Wasp 2k, as well. The pilot straps into a slightly reclined flight chair that uses bio-foam to allow the seat to mold to each pilot and provide the perfect fit.. It has been described by the test pilots as feeling more like a glove than a cockpit The new design allows for high speed maneuvers well in excess of 15g's to be performed without risk to the pilot.

Power for the Wasp 2k has been provided for by Mag-Core as with the Wasp. This time the PD-94, a plasma core with hyperspace capability, has been mated to the frame. The PD-94 also provides more than enough power for the Beckman Systems shield generator suite.

The weapons systems are still highly classified, but reports of scientists and weapons systems experts examining what appeared to be capitol ship armor that looked like it were butter sliced with a hot knife have circulated since the first test flights of the Wasp 2k. No one outside JTI or the Terran Defense Force has been able to determine what the four odd looking collectors at the tips of each winglet are for, but it is generally believed to be part of this new weapons system.

Below are photographs of the Wasp 2k released during the closing months of Project Obsidian and the lead test pilot, Capt. Kailyn O'Rourke of the Terran Defense Force. Also shown is the production neural interface helmet.