Beagle Active Probe

           Beagle Active Probe are excellent reconnaissance tools. Their main use is to reveal hidden units before they can initiate a surprise attack. They cannot detect infantry or mines, or penetrate ECM suites, however. All Recon 'Mechs should carry a Beagle Active Probe. It is also a good idea to mount a Beagle Probe on Combat and Assault 'Mechs in case they lead an advance into enemy territory.

C3 Computer

           The C3 Computer allows a lance of 4 'Mechs to fight as one, using the range modifiers of the 'Mech closest to the target. C3 lances are deadly in almost any situation. The C3 slave system is light enough to be carried by any 'Mech with little modification. The master system, however, is quite heavy and should be placed in a larger Combat, Support, or Assault 'Mech. The variation possible within a C3 lance is unlimited, but there are a few general concepts that should be considered.

• Speed: The C3 works better with at least two fast 'Mechs that can close or retreat at will in the C3 lance.
  

• Weaponry: A mix of weaponry is best. Some 'Mechs need to be effective at close range, others need to be able to inflict damage from afar. Versatility is highly desirable.
  

• Armor: Because C3 equipment is so valuable, good armor is essential, especially for the command 'Mech; if it is destroyed, the whole C3 network is lost.
  

Guardian ECM Suite

           The Guardian ECM Suite nullifies any Artimis IV, Beagle, NARC, or C3 system used within or passing through its 6 hex area of effect. It is an extremely valuable defensive system and should be carried on all Recon 'Mechs. It is also suitable for all other 'Mech types as it protects them from Artimis and NARC directed missiles and detection by Beagle Probes. It provides no protection, however, against Bloodhound or Clan Watchdog probes or Clan targeting computers.

Target Acquisition Gear

           Target Acquisition Gear (TAG) allows a 'Mech to "mark" an enemy for a devastatingly accurate attack by friendly Arrow IV missile artillery. The TAG is lightweight and has good range. It is an excellent system for any 'Mech to carry because it allows a 'Mech to direct artillery fire where it is needed most. Something that is otherwise very difficult to do.

Angel ECM Suite

           The Angel ECM Suite weighs as much as the Guardian but also counters Streak missiles, Bloodhound and Watchdog probes, and Clan targeting computers. If your group uses Level III rules, use the Angel ECM Suite in place of the Guardian on all of your designs.

Bloodhound Active Probe

           The Bloodhound Active Probe has a longer range and greater detection capabilities than the Beagle. It can even defeat the Guardian ECM suite. The Bloodhound weighs much more than the Beagle, however, and may be too heavy to mount on some light 'Mechs. Therefore, the Bloodhound should only be used on 'Mechs designed with a strong emphasis on reconnaissance. Use the Beagle Probe on other 'Mechs that won't be doing as much recon duty.