Shortsword-class Bomber

Template:Ship The Shortsword-class Bomber is a UNSC atmospheric bomber used primarily for short-range, heavy payload bombing runs against enemy ground targets, especially Covenant forces. Despite sharing a similar "sword" theme to the Longsword-class Interceptor, the two craft appear to be unrelated. The bombers were in use by the UNSC by at least 2531.

Function

A Shortsword's payload is interchangable, capable of delivering conventional ordnance, or less conventional munitions into theatres of combat, dropping them onto the target zone at low altitude and high velocity. These strikes are launched from an orbital support ship, indicating at least a rudimentary exoatmospheric capability.

Development

File:005 AirtowerV01.jpg

An early concept art image for the UNSC Airpad. Note the Falcons on the runway and one in the hangar, and a Shortsword docked with wings retracted.

At some time during the development of Halo Wars, the Shortsword was originally to be a useable unit, docked at the Air Tower, an early prototype of the Air Pad. In the concept art, its tail is retracted and its wings are angled up to allow docking, making it more compact.

Use

The use of the Shortsword differs depending on which faction the player uses. Professor Anders uses it in the Cryo Bomb ability, where it is a simple point-and-click power. Sergeant Forge uses it to perform Carpet Bombing runs, where the beginning of the bombing run must be selected. An arrow appears, and can be rotated around the start point, setting the angle of the bombing run, useful for hitting a number of enemies in different formations. Captain Cutter does not have access to it at all.

Trivia

The Shortsword in Halo Wars.

• Macolm Thomas-Gustave was the animator who worked on the Shortsword in the Halo Wars Announcement Trailer.
• It was once thought to be the Skyhawk in the Halo Wars trailer but has since been named in a desktop picture from the Official Halo Wars Website.
• Considering the Shortsword is tasked with delivering short range, atmospheric assaults, it can be speculated that it is part of the UNSC Air Force, and not the UNSC Navy.Template:Fact
• The Shortsword appears similar in appearance to the real-life B2 Stealth Bomber of the United States Air Force, with the exception of the large "boom" apparatus on the Shortsword. Both aircraft fill a similar role, acting as bombers, although it is unknown if the Shortsword has any stealth capabilities.