The capabilities of Support 'Mechs have changed little with improved technology. They still tend to be slow, well armored, and heavily armed. In some cases, Support 'Mechs have turned into Combat 'Mechs, becoming faster and more well-rounded through new technology. The old concept of a Support 'Mech is still adhered to in many designs, however, and there is still a need for heavy long-range firepower on the battlefield.

Capabilities

• Tonnage: 60-100
  

• Speed: Support 'Mechs have slow to medium speed. A walking speed of 3 or 4 is most common, but some designs are as fast as 5. Support 'Mechs with Jump Jets can bypass rough terrain and find a good firing position quickly, making them a valuable asset to any army.
  

• Armor: Most Support 'Mechs carry near maximum armor. The heavy protection is well warranted as they are often among the first targets engaged by the enemy.
  

• Weaponry: More so than other 'Mechs, Support 'Mechs carry duplicate weapon systems. This makes it harder for a lucky shot to completely silence the 'Mech, allows for some variation in weapons fire to control heat buildup, and allows the weapons to share an ammo bin. Common main weapons include PPCs, LRMs, Thunderbolt launchers, autocannon 5s and 10s, Gauss rifles, and even Arrow IV missile artillery. Ballistic weapons are preferred for their low heat buildup, but they require a constant supply of ammunition. The Artimis IV FCS is essential for LRM support 'Mechs because it greatly increases the average damage done by missile salvos. True support 'Mechs carry only token short range weaponry: a few medium lasers or a small SRM at most. Instead, they rely on their missiles and autocannon to destroy foes from afar.
  

• Other Equipment: ECM suites and AMSs can increase a Support 'Mech's life-span by reducing the damage done by counter-battery fire from opposing Support 'Mechs.
  

• Notes: A standard engine is a good choice for slower 'Mechs because it makes it much harder to kill them and still leaves plenty of room for weapons and equipment. Good heat dissipation is also important; a Support 'Mech should be able to fire its primary weapons continuously without heat build-up.