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{{Title|''Zurdo''-pattern Wraith}}
{{Ratings}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Era|RVB|H1|H2|H3|HW|TF|FS|H3R|}}
{{Center|Type-26 Wraith redirects here. For other types of Wraith, see [[Wraith]].}}
 
{{Vehicle infobox
{{Ship
|image=[[File:H3-T26WraithAGC.png|250px]]
|image=[[Image:1217349890 Wraith2.jpg|299px]]
|name=''Zurdo''-pattern Mortar Tank
|name=Type-25 Assault Gun Carriage
|manufacturer=*[[Assembly Forges]] {{C|pre-[[Great Schism]]}}{{Ref/Book|Id=evg|EVG|Page=206}}
|manufacturer=[[Covenant Empire|Covenant]]
*[[Lodam Armory]] {{C|post-Great Schism}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=275}}{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}}
|line=
|line=
|model=''Zurdo''-pattern
|model=Type-25
|cost=
|class=Infantry Tank
|length={{Convert|8.8|m|ft|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|evg}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc09|Enc09|Page=247}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc11|Enc11|Page=257}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|length=8.70 meters (28.6 feet)
|width={{Convert|9.2|m|ft}}{{Ref/Reuse|evg}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|width=3.6 meters (12 ft)
|height={{Convert|3.7|m|ft}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|height=3 meters (10 ft)
|mass={{Convert|47|MT}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|mass= 57 tons = ( 124,000 pounds)
|max speed= 82 km/h (51 mph){{Ref/Site|Id=waypoint|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/vehicles/wraith|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Wraith|D=11|M=5|Y=2021}}
|max accel=2.5 meters per second
|engine=[[Boosted gravity propulsion drive]]{{Ref/Game|Id=H2spec|H2|[[Halo 2: Special Collector's Edition Manual|Special Collector's Edition Manual]]|Detail=page 17}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|max speed space=
|hull={{Convert|61|cm|ft|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}}
|max speed air=
|engine=[[Boosted Gravity Propulsion Drive]]<ref>''[[Halo 2: Special Collector's Edition Manual]]'', page 17</ref>
|slipspace drive=
|slipspace speed=
|poweroutput=
|power=
|shield gen=
|hull= resistant to two Rockets, or to two Spartan Lasers (depending on where it is hit)
|sensor=
|sensor=
|target=
|target=
|armament=*1 [[Heavy plasma mortar|Type-26 35cm Directed Energy Mortar]]{{Ref/Book|Id=H4EVG|H4EVG|Page=117}}
|navigation=
*1 [[Type-26 Directed Energy Weapon Emplacement]]{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}}
|avionics=
|crew=*1 driver{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|countermeasures= Scorpion Tank, Spartan Laser
*1 gunner{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|armament=*[[Plasma Mortar]]  
*2 Automated [[Plasma Cannons]] (''Halo 2'' only)
*Secondary [[Plasma Cannon|Plasma Turret]] (''Halo 3'' only)
|complement=
|complement=
|crew=1 Driver and one Gunner
|skeleton=
|passengers=None
|capacity=
|consumables=
|consumables=
|othersystems=
|othersystems=
|role=Light assault gun carriage
|firstuse=
*Armoured infantry support
|role=Main Battle Tank
*Mobile Anti-vehicle / anti-armor battery
|era= [[Human-Covenant War]]
*Mobile artillery / siege warfare
|affiliation=[[Covenant Empire|Covenant]], [[Covenant Loyalist]]
|firstuse-title=In service
|firstuse=*[[Human-Covenant War]]
*[[Great Schism]]
*[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
**[[Blooding Years]]  
|affiliation=*[[Covenant]]<br>
*[[Covenant separatists]]
*[[Covenant remnants]]
**[[Swords of Sanghelios]]
**[[Servants of Abiding Truth]]
**[[Merg Vol's Covenant]]
**[[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant]]
**[[Sali 'Nyon's Covenant]]
}}
}}
The '''''Zurdo''-pattern Mortar Tank''' {{Type|26|Assault Gun Carriage|AGC}},{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}} more commonly known as the '''Wraith''', is the [[Covenant]]'s main armoured infantry support/assault gun vehicle for ground engagements.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}


==Overview==
<center>''Were you looking for the [[Type-52 Anti-Aircraft Artillery|Anti-Air Wraith]]?''</center>
===Design details===
The '''Type-25 Assault Gun Carriage''', commonly called the '''Wraith''', is the [[Covenant Empire|Covenant]]'s main heavy assault [[vehicle]] for ground engagements. The Wraith can be rapidly deployed in a combat-ready state by [[Spirit|DX-class]] or [[Phantom|Type-52]] dropships, and thus, is the bane of [[UNSC]] [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marines]] and [[Colonial Militia|UNSC Colonial Militia]].
[[File:Wraith.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Blueprint of the Wraith.]]
 
The ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraith is the primary armored ground vehicle used by the Covenant.{{Ref/Site|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/projects/reach/article.aspx?ucc=ordnance&cid=25444|Site=Bungie.net|Page=Halo: Reach Ordnance Page|D=7|M=2|Y=2021}} The Covenant deploys Wraiths in tactical ground engagements, where they serve in both anti-infantry and anti-armor roles. The Wraith's firepower also makes it ideal for destroying structures.{{Ref/Reuse|H2spec}}
The Wraith is the Covenant equivalent of the [[M808B Scorpion MBT]], however, unlike the [[UNSC]] counterpart, the Type-25 Assault Gun Carriage uses a mortar cannon. The [[Type-52 Anti Aircraft Artillery|Type-52 Anti-Aircraft Artillery]] is a variant of the Wraith. The Wraith also hovers above the ground, instead of using tracks like the [[M808B Scorpion MBT|Scorpion]].
 
== Weapons and Armor ==
[[Image:1211404887 Wraith Discharge.jpg|150px|left|thumb|A Wraith firing a plasma mortar.]]
[[Image:Mortar Halo 3.jpg|thumb|left|A Wraith's mortar shot in mid-flight.]]
 
The Wraith's primary weapon, a short-barreled [[Plasma Mortar]] (which is the second heaviest Covenant ground weapon (a scarab is the most powerful), is fixed horizontally, but can be skewed vertically. To aim the mortar, the entire vehicle must turn to face its target. The mortar can be retracted into the hull while not in use, a design advantage considering the vehicle's awkward firing requirements. The mortar fires large bolts of superheated, magnetically guided plasma in a ballistic trajectory, raining down on enemy troops with tremendous force. A direct hit can penetrate nearly any type of [[armor]], and even an indirect hit is often deadly. The arc in the shot makes it move slowly, but more precise and actually making it capable of catching enemies off guard. The target must be at least eight meters away for the Wraith to use the weapon outside of the "dead zone", an area in which it would cause damage to itself as well as the intended target.
 
The secondary weapon of the Wraith is an automatic [[Plasma Cannon]] (there are two different versions: the manned one in ''[[Halo 3]]'' seen in post-2549 models, and the older one in ''[[Halo 2]]''), which possesses an extremely high rate of fire, and is powerful enough to penetrate the armor of light vehicles. However, although devastating to (and designed to deter) infantry and would-be boarders and barriers, the plasma cannon is ineffective against heavy armor. The plasma cannons in ''Halo 2'' are controlled by the AI, and when the vehicle is controlled by the AI, they do not work for players.
 
Wraiths possess heavy armor and are difficult to destroy. The heavily armored hull and chassis make the Wraith almost immune to small-arms fire. Only heavy weapons, artillery or internal explosions can destroy the vehicle. The pilot is well protected within the hull, and even the weaponry are armored. Typical of assault vehicles, the front armor is capable of taking much heavier punishment than the flanks or rear. This is due to the fact that a Wraith possesses sloped armor on the front, which causes the armor to be much thicker than on the sides. However, even the underbelly of the vehicle is heavily armored to protect the anti-gravity plates underneath the chassis. Before the addition of the plasma cannons Wraiths were particularly vulnerable to infantry, and fast moving vehicles making flanking attempts, also due to the Wraith's slow speed and lack of a suitable anti-air weapon they are useless at deterring aerial assaults.There is also a spot on the back of a Wraith and if you hit this spot, it explodes.
 
== Gameplay ==
[[Image:1211252630 Wraithsplosion.jpg|right|thumb|A Wraith's mortar explodes on impact with any object.]]
In battle, the Wraith is the Covenant equivalent of a [[UNSC]] [[Scorpion Tank]]. With the ability to boost, they are faster than Scorpions (though slower when not boosting). Its attack is less accurate and slightly weaker, but Wraiths can indirectly bombard enemy forces. In ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', only [[Elites]] can pilot Wraiths. In ''[[Halo 2]]'', [[SPARTAN Program|Spartans]], [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marines]], [[Elites]], [[Brutes]], and [[Flood]] [[Combat Forms]] may operate this vehicle. In ''Halo 3'', [[SPARTAN Program|Spartans]], [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marines]], [[Elites]], and [[Brutes]] still pilot Wraiths. The vehicle is slow and easily boarded, and without [[Ghosts]] as defending escorts, a boarding party has a good chance of success. However, having a passenger manning the plasma turret exponentially decreases the chances of a successful boarding, as the turret's wide field of view and high rate of fire make it ideal for destroying infantry. The safest way to board it is to come up from behind it while a teammate gets its attention and draws its fire away from you as you board it, and either knock the pilot out or shove a grenade into its frame.
[[Image:Wraith_Full.jpg|right|thumb|Halo: Combat Evolved Wraith.]]


Like all Covenant ground vehicles, the Wraith is sleek, bulbous and more reminiscent of an aircraft than a traditional ground vehicle. The Wraith is divided into four main sections: chassis, fins, rudders, and plasma mortar. The chassis houses the cockpit, which includes movement, targeting and firing controls. Holographic control surfaces and displays show the pilot a 360-degree view outside the Wraith.{{Ref/Novel|FS|Page=113}} Underneath the cockpit is a [[boosted gravity propulsion drive]],{{Ref/Game|Id=h2manual|H2|[[Halo 2 manual|manual]]|Detail=page 19}} which propels the Wraith and keeps it suspended a short distance above the ground. The Wraith's engine vents excess heat and plasma through an exhaust port at the rear of the vehicle; this port is one of the more vulnerable spots on the Wraith. The wide, sweeping fins at the front of the vehicle stabilize the vehicle on uneven terrain, as well as provide extra thrust during a boost.{{Ref/Reuse|h2manual}} At the rear of the Wraith are two rudders, which control the turning of the vehicle using independent propulsion drives. The fourth major component is the Wraith's main weapon, a heavy plasma mortar, which rests above and behind the cockpit and can be retracted within the main body. The entirety of the Wraith is covered by nearly two feet of armor plating, which is composed of a polymer that is still poorly understood by human physicists.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}}
===''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''===
In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', the Wraith tank is a tough adversary, and cannot be driven by the player unless mods are used. A few Wraiths first appear in the Grav-Bay of the ''[[Truth and Reconciliation]]'', though they can be destroyed by shooting point-blank with [[Assault Rifle]] rounds and grenades. Some are also seen in the storage and shuttle bays of the ship. On [[Assault on the Control Room]] and [[Two Betrayals]], Wraiths are seen in combat, and are difficult adversaries to defeat. This version of the Wraith has no anti-personnel weapons, and the graphics are less detailed than in future games, with the mortar looking like a tube, rather than the plasma mortar itself. On [[Normal]] difficulty, the Wraith can survive about two to three direct rocket hits before being destroyed. While formidable, it is not without weaknesses. Wraiths can be flipped, knocking the [[Elite]] driver out of the vehicle and rendering it useless. Just like the ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' [[Ghost]], the Wraith floats noticeably higher than its ''Halo 2'' and ''Halo 3'' counterparts. It is possible to drive a [[Scorpion]] or [[Warthog]] underneath the Wraith. Marines will occasionally shoot at the plasma mortars or even throw grenades at the plasma bombardments. This is most likely a bug in ''Halo CE'''s design. Because of no anti-personal rounds, the wraith will still attempt to shoot at you no matter how close you are, even if you are right on it.


===Armaments===
Players using mods report that the Wraith in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' is noticeably difficult to drive and shoot, since the driving behaves like the Ghost, and that the main gun arcs and flies differently, and quite slowly, making it very inaccurate. With some simple modding of the <tt>wraith_mortar</tt> tag, the rate of fire can be adjusted from default ROF to an ROF that competes with the Assault Rifle. Aiming the mortar involves a good deal of familiarity with ballistics for those player's that enojoy eliminating their enemy in as few shots as possible. While the player could mod the mortar's arc to 0, making it a straight shot, a simple degree of trial and error is usually the best tactic. The default ROF of the Wraith is set at two, and each round does not have to be chambered (as opposed to the Scorpion, which has an ROF of 4 and requires each round to be chambered), allowing for a relatively rapid ROF.
The main weapon of the Wraith is its 35cm [[heavy plasma mortar]].{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}} The Wraith's mortar is attached to a fixed mounting, meaning that a Wraith must be facing its target in order to hit it.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}} The plasma mortar works by creating a magnetically encapsulated blob of superheated plasma and firing it at a relatively low velocity. Once fired, the bolt is magnetically guided in a ballistic trajectory until it strikes the ground or target. When the bolt hits, the magnetic bubble collapses and the plasma rapidly expands from its compressed state, creating a superheated explosion that will vaporize everything within twenty meters of impact.{{Ref/Novel|Id=fs112|FS|Page=112}} Titanium battleplate, concrete, or flesh is instantly obliterated by the blast. Anything just outside of the kill zone is at risk of injury or death — after the initial impact, the plasma begins to cool and thermal expansion takes over, creating a wave of fire traveling outward that can travel away from the initial blast zone. Infantry within range can sustain burns and heat trauma. The explosion also generates a large amount of concussive force, which can splinter bones and destroy vital organs.{{Ref/Anthology|Evo|Palace Hotel|Page=351}} Flammable materials are especially at risk of igniting due to the intense heat release and can cause further damage. Once the heat from the explosion dissipates, the blast zone will have been converted into a glass-smooth surface - much like the swaths of vitrified soil created by "[[glassing]]".


The Wraith is also equipped with an anti-infantry [[Type-26 Directed Energy Weapon Emplacement|T-26 DEWE light plasma cannon]].{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}} This turret is able to burn through armor and flesh, with predictably gruesome results. Against infantry, the cannon's plasma causes severe fourth-degree burns.
Modding the <tt>wraith</tt> vehicle tag can also drastically improve performance and handling. The default speed is set at 0.12 (for comparison, the Scorpion is set to 0.14), and the Wraith has no reverse or slide (strafe) speed capabilities. However, modding can allow the Wraith to handle better than the Scorpion, or even better than a Warthog, depending on the player's preferences. This has been shown to make the Wraith an incredibly potent death machine, and moderate skill combined with map familiarity can usually make the player nearly unstoppable.


All ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraiths made after 2549 featured a ring mount for the light plasma cannon,{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}} allowing an additional crew member on the Wraith.{{Ref/Site|Id=odststats|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/stats/halo3/careerstatsodst.aspx?player=AkajiCZ|Site=Bungie.net|Page=Halo 3 ODST Career Stats|Quote=All post-2549 model Wraiths have an extended crew area with a Type-52 DESW in a ring mount.|Quotee=Wraith - Gunner tooltip description|D=22|M=12|Y=2013}}{{Ref/Site|Id=reachstats|URL=https://halo.bungie.net/stats/reach/careerstats/weapons.aspx?player=thegamer298&vc=4&sort=5|Site=Bungie.net|Page=Reach : Career Stats|Quote=All post-2549 model Wraiths have an extended crew area with a Type-52 DESW in a ring mount.|Quotee=Wraith Type-26 AGC (Gunner) tooltip description|D=19|M=7|Y=2019}}
A Warthog could flip the Wraith, although it's often very hard, and only raises the nose a little. The easiest place to to this is on ''Two Betrayals'', wherein you have access to Banshees in almost every place there is a Wraith. Wraiths are easiest to flip from the back in <i>Halo: CE</i>, although it is often easier to flip it when it is damaged.
<gallery>
File:H3-T26WraithAGC.png|The ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraith with the ring mount.
File:HReach-T26WraithAGC.png|Alternate chassis with the ring mount.
</gallery>


===Advantages===
A flipped Wraith is the same as the Wraith seen on board the Truth and Reconciliation; there is no Elite inside, the hatch is open although it is still non-drivable.
With the exception of the [[Scarab]], the Wraith is the Covenant's most destructive mobile armor. Its huge bulk is well shielded from small arms fire, and it is resistant to medium explosive weapons. Its ability to be deployed with the aid of dropships makes insertions into the battlefield fairly easy. Its plasma mortar can easily decimate infantry and vehicles alike, and its destructive powers are so well known to UNSC forces that the mere sight of one on the battlefield can induce psychological effects.{{Ref/Reuse|fs112}} One of the benefits is the mortar function due to the trajectory that can suppress any incoming enemy from behind the wall, or those who are stationed at the rooftop that can't be reached by a Scorpion Tank's trajectory. While it's not suitable for head to head battle, it is most suitable to conduct a suppression fire mainly against enemy infantry.


===Disadvantages===
===[[Halo 2]]===
The Wraith's main disadvantage is its slow speed, due to the vehicle's massive weight. While the boost drive can propel the vehicle to moderately high speeds, the maneuverability of the vehicle is compromised —  turning becomes difficult during a boost, and the momentum that is built from it makes it possible for the vehicle to inadvertently plow through friendly forces, crash into and get lodged between stationary objects, or overshoot its mark and skate off of a cliff or into a body of water. The Wraith is also poorly suited for scaling inclines.  
[[Image:Index Wraith.jpg|right|thumb|150px|A Halo 2 Wraith.]]
In ''Halo 2'', the Wraith has two weapons: the standard plasma mortar and two automated [[Plasma Cannons]]. Although they are not very accurate, they can easily take down [[energy shielding]]. The turrets auto-target any enemy within range, making [[boarding]] a Wraith more difficult. However, the player cannot utilize these turrets themselves, meaning that the Wraith is somewhat ineffective in the player's hands. In ''Halo 2'' when a player boards a Wraith, the player is to wait a few second delay before using the plasma mortar. The ''Halo 2'' Wraith also includes a booster engine, capable of tripling the tank's speed for about one second and requires five seconds to recharge. This booster is not affected by the few second delay when boarding the Wraith, unlike the plasma mortar which is affected by it. Though this can be used to travel faster, it is commonly used to run over enemies who are getting too close and is extremely effective due to the Wraiths reverse speed being identical to a Spartan/Elite running speed. This booster can crush small vehicles, such as [[Ghosts]] or [[Warthogs]] and damage other heavy vehicles such as other Wraiths and [[Scorpions]]. It is even possible to boost and destroy or damage [[Banshees]]. This version of Wraith is more difficult to defeat by melee unlike the version in ''[[Halo 3]]''. The [[Halo 2]] Wraith also has an air brake, similar to the [[Spectre]], that can be used to bring the nose up if the vehicle has launched itself into the air. The vulnerable exhaust panel on the rear of the Wraith must be removed before a grenade can be thrown into the vehicle, melees are common but it is possible to shoot the panel off with any weapon, even a sniper rifle. In the level [[Quarantine Zone (level)|Quarantine Zone]], the [[Flood]] will also drive Wraiths.


Like most tanks, the Wraith has a "dead area", a zone in which the plasma mortar cannot fire without risking damage to itself.<ref>'''[[Halo: The Flood]]''' ''page 184''</ref> The slow speed and cumbersome nature of the Wraith makes it prone to boarding action — while the front of the tank is harder to board because of the plasma turret(s), the rear is highly susceptible to boarding. A small rotating cylinder exhaust port in the back is a vulnerable spot that, if hit with a medium explosive device or anti-materiél weapons fire, can damage the tank severely. The exposed gunner operating the Type-52 DESW is also an easy target for marksman and sniper fire.
===''[[Halo 3]]''===
[[Image:H3 Wraith.jpg|right|thumb|200px|The new Wraith in [[Halo 3]], with the turret operation seat.]]


Since its weaponry is designed to be used against non-mobile or low-mobility targets, and its weight and wide profile prevent it from maneuvering with any deal of speed and accuracy, the Wraith is a very soft target for high mobility vehicles, such as a [[Warthog]] or a [[Ghost]], and is at a high risk of destruction against a vehicle with a much more accurate heavy weapon (such as the [[Scorpion]] with its direct-firing 90mm cannon).
Different versions of Wraiths appears in ''Halo 3''. New features include visible headlights, increased speed and a more accurate line of fire. However, the propulsion jet represents an extremely vulnerable spot in the armor, making it possible for the first time to destroy a Wraith with melee attacks from behind the tank with no direct melee attacks to the driver. A strong hit to the jet after removing its cover causes a violent chain reaction of explosions. The new turret fires energy blasts resembling the shots of the [[Plasma Rifle]] instead of a beam like the [[Spectre]]. The tank has a subtle greenish shine to it and an embedded latticework that glimmers in the light. The most dramatic design change added an exposed topside gunnery position with a 270° view, allowing for better defense against enemy soldiers and boarders. Boarding is made more difficult in that now boarders have both a pilot, and gunner to kill before gaining control of the vehicle, not to mention that the gunner will fire on the boarder before he or she even has the chance to plant a grenade, to kill both of them. The Wraith now has the ability to attack two targets independent of one another, (such as focusing the mortar on destroying a nearby Warthog, while the gunner takes out a player on foot attempting to hijack the vehicle from the sides.) The turret is powerful enough to destroy a Ghost before one can successfully destroy the Wraith, (unless it gets right behind it and shoots at the jet.) The boost feature is no longer as potent a defense as the ''Halo 2'' Wraith taking longer for the vehicle to achieve its optimum boost speed, this translates to the Wraith not being able to use the boost as an offensive system at extreme close range. The Wraith, although having the same top speed as its ''Halo 2'' counterpart, has difficulty traversing high angles and its reversing capability is often inadequate. If boarded from behind or on the front of the cockpit the driver cannot exit the vehicle, another difference from the ''Halo 2'' version. If you manage to get close to it you can board the Wraith and throw a grenade in the cockpit or engine structure, which completely destroys the tank. An alternative is to beat the driver out without destroying the tank, which instead renders it operational.


The Plasma Mortar is also ill-suited for long range combat, as it moves so slowly that even units with low mobility-such as the Scorpion tank-can dodge it.
The Wraith also has an Achilles Heel in the back of the tank. It is covered up by some armor, but can be taken down with a few Battle Rifle shots, which reveals a blue circle device that powers the Wraith. Another shot from a [[Battle Rifle]] will instantly destroy the Wraith. The Wraith is thought to be inferior to the [[M808B Main Battle Tank|Scorpion]] tank at extended ranged due to the difficulty of hitting a target with the arc effect. In a battle between a Scorpion and a Wraith, the Scorpion will typically triumph. However, the Wraith is superior in speed and anti-boarding measures when using its boosters since these make it faster than the Scorpion, and it's also very easy to splatter infantry or even crush smaller vehicles with this boost. Also, although the Scorpion doesn't have an Achilles' Heel like the Wraith, the Wraith's main armor appears to be about 15% more resistant to damage than the Scorpion's, although it still takes the same number of attacks to destroy a Wraith as to a Scorpion.


==Operational history==
===''[[Halo Wars]]''===
===Human-Covenant War===
[[Image:HW wraith.jpg|right|The Wraith as depicted in ''[[Halo Wars]]''.|thumb]]
The Wraith has been in service to the Covenant for centuries,{{Ref/Film|HLeg|Episode=The Duel}} and has served in countless [[Battle|engagements]] during the [[Human-Covenant War]]. After [[Second Battle of Harvest|the retaking]] of [[Harvest]] in [[2526]] by [[Admiral]] [[Preston Jeremiah Cole|Cole]], the Covenant, attempting to scout and recover [[Relic (location)|an artifact]], deployed multiple Wraiths during [[Harvest Campaign|the assault]] on Harvest.
[[Image:Hijacking Spartan.jpg|right|A Wraith being hijacked by a [[SPARTAN-II]] in ''Halo Wars''.|thumb]]
As ever, it is the main battle tank of the Covenant. It appears to be highly resistant to damage, capable of dealing great damage and is quite fast. Armed with the classic plasma mortar and with the anti-personnel plasma cannon, which looks very similar to the one in ''Halo 3'', although unmanned and directly under the driver's control. Its several upgrades include a heavier shield which make it more resistant to fire, the Scorch ability that causes extra damage, and finally an upgrade for its main mortar. Like in ''Halo 3'' and ''Halo 2'' the Wraith can still be hijacked, but only by [[SPARTAN-II]] units.


Throughout the war the Covenant deployed Wraiths during ground campaigns against [[civilian]] and military targets. Wraiths would commonly target civilian evacuation transports still on the ground and platforms and structures leading to them, or would fire and kill large groups of civilians crowded together. In [[2531]], during the [[Battle of Arcadia|first assault]] on the colony world [[Arcadia]], multiple Wraiths were used in this situation to kill panicking civilians attempting to flee the Covenant invasion. The tanks assisted in destroying structures and platforms holding civilians waiting for evacuation. In addition, the tanks were used against UNSC military forces attempting to assist with evacuation efforts.{{Ref/Level|HW|Arcadia City}} During the [[Battle of Trove]], Wraiths were used by Covenant forces against not only the crew of the {{UNSCShip|Spirit of Fire}} but also the [[Flood]] and Sentinels as well.{{Ref/Level|HW|[[Beachhead (Halo Wars level)|Beachhead]]}}
Upgrades:
*1.'''Heavy shield''' - Adds an energy shield, which deflects some incoming damage.
*2.'''Scorch''' - The Wraith's special attack leaves a bubbling plasma splash on the ground for additional damage.
*3.'''Plasma modulator''' - A large boost to the plasma mortar is added, which increases its damage.


As the war dragged on, ground campaigns conducted by the Covenant continued to employ the Wraith as their main heavy armored vehicle. During the [[Algolis Invasion|assault]] on [[Algolis]] the Wraiths were called in to weaken military forces attempting to protect and destroy valuable data. The UNSC was able to hold off the Covenant just long enough and all ground forces were eventually destroyed with the detonation of a nuclear weapon attached to a [[HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark I Prototype Armor Defense System|prototype armor suit]].{{Ref/Film|Id=Prototype|HLeg|Episode=Prototype}}
'''Resource''': 350


As the war with [[human]]ity was reaching its apex, the Covenant began updating and building up their military campaign against humanity. After [[2549]], all models of the ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraith were equipped with a ring mount for a secondary gunner to operate the Wraith's plasma cannon.{{Ref/Reuse|odststats}}{{Ref/Reuse|reachstats}} During [[Battle of Sigma Octanus IV|the invasion]] of [[Sigma Octanus IV]] in [[2552#July|July 2552]] the Covenant deployed numerous tanks to take out strategic areas on the planet including [[military base]]s and civilian structures.{{Ref/Novel|Id=HTFOR|TFoR|Chapter=19}} No sooner had that battle finished the Covenant launched [[Fall of Reach|a surprise assault]] on [[Reach]], humanity's heavily fortified epicenter of military and economic power outside of Earth. Multiple divisions of Wraith tanks were employed to inflict mass casualties on civilian and military forces alike. Their campaign was successful destroying major military and civilian transports, structures and killing countless in the process.{{Ref/Level|HR|Tip of the Spear}}{{Ref/Level|HR|Exodus}}
'''Minimum Tech Level''': 1


During the opening of the [[Battle for Earth]], the ''[[Solemn Penance]]'' managed to jump to the city of [[Mombasa]]. In the short but bloody [[Battle of Mombasa|campaign]], the Covenant was able to land armor and troops into the city. Wraiths quickly moved in to cut off civilian evacuation by the city's rail system.{{Ref/Game|H3ODST|Sadie's Story}} With civilians cut off, the Covenant began systematically destroying anything they could before the Prophet of Regret's ship jumped out of [[New Mombasa]], destroying parts the city.{{Ref/Level|H3ODST|Prepare to Drop}} In the aftermath of Regret's retreat the full-scale invasion of Earth began, the Covenant laid waste to many parts of the planet and Wraiths were on the forefront of the ground assault.{{Ref/Level|H3ODST|Kizingo Boulevard}}{{Ref/Level|H3ODST|ONI Alpha Site}}
'''Population Count''': 3


With the uncovering of the [[Portal at Voi]], the Covenant moved all their troops and armor to prevent the UNSC military from getting close to it. They deployed Wraiths to dispatch military forces attempting to break through their formation.{{Ref/Level|H3|Tsavo Highway}}{{Ref/Level|H3|The Storm}} After the opening of the portal and the arrival at [[Installation 00]] the Covenant deployed all their assets in a [[Battle of Installation 00|last ditch effort]] to stop humanity and activate the remaining [[halo Array|Halo installations]]. Wraiths were front and center in this operation, although ultimately, they lost to their human enemies.{{Ref/Level|H3|[[The Ark (level)|The Ark]]}}{{Ref/Level|H3|[[The Covenant (level)|The Covenant]]}}
====Tactics====
When combating a Wraith, the method varies depending on your intents and your current position. If you are in a light vehicle (ex. Warthog, Ghost) and you want to destroy the Wraith, simply evade the massive shots. On your priority list, however, watch out for the plasma turrets-these will chip away your health and in Legendary, are more dangerous than the main mortar, as it can actually hit you. When dealing with a pair or more of enemy Wraiths, such as the entrance to the tunnel in Metropolis, you may wish to use the Ghost instead of the Warthog, because it lacks the equal amount of evasiveness and also does not have the boost feature. For the Ghost, concentrate on one vehicle at a time. If you are in a ''heavy'' vehicle and also wish to take them out, simply fire with the main cannon (ex. Mortar for the Wraith and the 90mm High velocity Main gun for the Scorpion Tank) from a distance, where you can easily move if you see them fire.  


===Post-War===
In contrast, should you want to board, never do so if there is a pair; the other Wraith will destroy you with the mortar once you have successfully boarded. As the enemy AI only uses the boost feature when you're in front of it, this should be done relatively easily. The only problem lies in the secondary plasma turret. In higher difficulties, these can take you out in seconds. To counter this, drive straight up to the Wraith in your light vehicle and get out in the last second. Not only does this save time to walk/run over, it protects you from the plasma mortar. From there, to avoid getting boarded again, simply boost and splatter the enemy. The [[Spartan Laser]] is a very effective weapon to use against the Wraith destroying it in two shots, one if aimed at its motor on the back, or directly at the driver's cockpit.
During the post-war period, Wraiths were popular during [[War Games]] matches aboard [[Anvil Station]] and the {{UNSCShip|Infinity}}. Wraiths were used by [[Merg Vol's Covenant]] during the [[Battle of Draetheus V]] in [[2554]]. Many would be destroyed by both [[SPARTAN-IV program|Spartans]] [[Sarah Palmer]] and [[Edward Davis]] with the help of the [[UNSC Marine Corps]] and [[UNSC Army]].{{Ref/Level|HSA|Mission 4: Live to Fight}}{{Ref/Level|HSA|Mission 10: Battle at Red Slate}} [[2557|Four years]] after the end of the Human-Covenant War, [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant]] continued to use the Wraith. Multiple Wraiths were used in the [[Battle of Requiem|attack]] on the {{UNSCShip|Infinity}}'s crash site.{{Ref/Level|H4|[[Infinity (level)|Infinity]]}} Several were later used in defense of the [[Forerunner]] [[particle cannon]]s.{{Ref/Level|H4|[[Reclaimer (level)|Reclaimer]]}} Wraiths were also used during the Didact's [[Raid on Ivanoff Station]] in their attempt to secure the [[Composer]].{{Ref/Level|H4|[[Composer (level)|Composer]]}} The faction utilized a number of Wraiths during the [[Battle of Installation 03]].{{Ref/Level|HSS|Mission 9: Lockout}} Wraiths were deployed to many sites across the interior of Requiem during the [[Requiem Campaign|combat]] within the planet [[2558|six months later]].{{Ref/SpOps|Episode=Departure|Level=Land Grab}}{{Ref/SpOps|Episode=Catherine|Level=Shootout in Valhalla}}{{Ref/SpOps|Episode=Expendable|Level=Unfinished Business}} 'Mdama's faction would again use Wraiths during the [[Battle of Aktis IV|conflict]] on [[Aktis IV]]. A [[Sali 'Nyon's Covenant|rebel offshoot]] of 'Mdama's faction led by [[Sali 'Nyon]] also possessed at least one Wraith.{{Ref/Comic|HEsc|Issue=[[Halo: Escalation Issue 24|#24]]}} During [[Operation: ATHENA]] 'Mdama's forces used multiple ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraiths in an attempt to stop a team of Spartan-IVs.{{Ref/Comic|HEsc|Issue=[[Halo: Escalation Issue 20|#20]]}}


By October 2558, the newer {{Pattern|Kemu|Wraith}} was becoming more commonplace within Jul 'Mdama's Covenant forces and the [[Swords of Sanghelios]].{{Ref/Site|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-designs-of-the-times|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Canon Fodder - Designs of the Times|D=26|M=8|Y=2021}}
In ''[[Halo Wars]]'' the Wraith is an excellent anti-infantry and anti-vehicle. Its weapons are most effective against slow or nearby targets, due to the time it takes for a mortar shot to hit them. Once the Wraith gets its upgrades it becomes much more dangerous, with ''Heavy Shield'' capable of protecting it by a high amount of damage, ''Scorch'' which allows it to have a special attack to cause prolonged damage, and ''Plasma modulator'' which highly increases the [[Plasma Mortar]] offensive power. The Wraith is rather vulnerable against [[Spartan II|Spartans]] and their [[hijack]] ability, but it is also weak against heavy air units and vehicle counters such as the [[Hawk]], [[Vulture]] or [[Cobra]].


==Trivia==
== Character Compatibility ==
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes}}
*[[Elites]]
*It is wrongly stated in the ''Halo 2'' manual that the player can shoot the Wraith's plasma cannons while driving; these are usable only by NPCs in gameplay. The ''Halo 3'' manual claims that the Wraith features the aforementioned cannons, though they appear only in ''Halo 2''.
*[[Flood Combat forms]] ([[Halo 2]] only)
*An [[:File:HR Wraith Marathon symbol.png|abstract depiction]] of the ''[[Marathon]]'' logo [[List of Marathon references in the Halo series|is embedded in the Wraith's cockpit]] in ''Halo: Reach''. [[Bungie]] limited their use of ''Marathon'' references in the game due to intellectual property concerns, as opposed to the logo's frequent appearances in the original trilogy.
*[[Brutes]] (Halo 2 and [[Halo 3]] only)
*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary'', the Wraith's model was carried over from ''Halo: Reach'' with no changes. As such the T-52 plasma cannon is still mounted on top, though it is not usable. Conversely, the Scorpion tank's independently mounted machine gun was removed entirely.
*[[Spartan II]] (Halo 2, Halo 3, and [[Halo Wars]] only)
*It is possible, though difficult, to hijack a Wraith by hopping in the mounted turret while an enemy is still inside of it, while not harming the Wraith. In ''Halo Reach'' and ''Halo 4'', in Campaign, [[Firefight]] or [[Spartan Ops]], respectively, if the player is able to get in the turret while an enemy NPC driver is still in, the driver will hop out and usually start shooting at the player, after which the player can dispatch the enemy with the turret and claim the Wraith, possibly with it being undamaged.
*[[UNSC Marine Corps|Marines]] (Halo 2 and Halo 3 only)
*Since ''[[Halo 4]]'', if the player presses the melee button while boosting, the Wraith will perform a super glide, in which the vehicle lifts its nose to pass over obstacles, while also making splatters a little bit easier.
*[[Orbital Drop Shock Trooper|ODSTs]] (Halo 2, Halo 3, and Halo 3: ODST&nbsp;only)


==Gallery==
== Trivia ==
===''Halo 3''===
<gallery>
File:WraithH3.png|Render of an active Wraith.
File:H3 TsavoBattle.png|A Wraith fires its mortar at a Warthog.
File:H3 Wraith.jpg|A Wraith with a Jiralhanae Minor in its gunner seat.
File:H3-Wraith.png|An active Wraith on [[Highground]] in multiplayer.
File:H3-WraithHUD.png|HUD of the Wraith's operator.
File:H3-WraithturretHUD.png|HUD of the Wraith's gunner.
</gallery>


===''Halo 3: ODST''===
<gallery>
File:H3ODST KizingoBoulevardBattle3.jpg|A Wraith fires its mortar at [[Michael Crespo|Mickey]]'s Scropion.
File:HTMCC-H3ODST BridgeAssault.jpg|Covenant infantry supported by Wraiths in an assault on [[ONI Alpha Site (location)|ONI Alpha Site]].
File:HTMCC-H3ODST-FloodWraith.png|The Flood using a Wraith in [[Firefight]] in ''Halo: The Master Chief Collection''.
</gallery>


===''Halo: Reach''===
[[Image:WraithVSSpartans.JPG|thumb|right|A [[SPARTAN II|SPARTAN]] takes on a Wraith on board a [[AV-14 Attack VTOL|Hornet]].]]
<gallery>
*In ''[[Halo:CE]]'', if a player knocks a Wraith off a cliff and it flips over, (this can be done on [[Assault on the Control Room (Level)|Assault on the Control Room]]), he can flip the Wraith but cannot enter it.
File:Reach T25 TR Inact.jpg|Reference of an inactive ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraith.
*When in [[Halo 3]] [[Forge]], if you enter a Wraith normally, wait a few seconds, then exit by entering Monitor Mode. If done correctly, the Main Turret will not retract into the vehicle. This can sometimes give your enemies the false sense there's someone in the Wraith. If you flip the tank, you can give the same effect.
File:Reach T25 TR act.jpg|Reference of an active ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraith.
*Marines call it a "Wraith" because "You would get one look at it before you turned into one."<ref>''[[Halo: First Strike]]'', page 112: ''Marines called these tanks "Wraiths" because you usually got one look at them before they made you one.''</ref>
File:Reach T25 eng mor.jpg|Reference of the heavy plasma mortar fired by the ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraith.
*The mortars of the Wraith in ''Halo 3'' go significantly farther then their previous counterparts.
File:Reach MPBeta Wraith.png|Render of an inactive Wraith in the [[Halo: Reach Multiplayer Beta|''Halo: Reach'' Multiplayer Beta]].
*It is wrongly stated in the ''Halo 3'' manual that the Wraith has dual-auto firing cannons. It only has them in [[Halo 2]]. It is also wrongly stated in the Halo 2 manual that the&nbsp;player can shoot the wraith's plasma cannons while driving.&nbsp;They are&nbsp;not&nbsp;fire-able.&nbsp; &nbsp;
File:Reach Wraith Active.png|Render of an active Wraith.
* In ''Halo 3'', if a Wraith driver holds down the 'A' button while driving, the Wraith's front 'wings' will enclose and pull the front of the Wraith upwards to form a wheelie. This makes is effective in ramming attempts.
File:Wraith symbols.png|Patterns on the Wraith.
* The Plasma Mortar has changed from the ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' depiction. The Plasma Mortar was a lot taller than the one in ''Halo 2'', also its shots were slightly smaller.
File:Revenant - Gameplay01.png|A {{Pattern|Rizvum|Revenant}} fighting two Wraiths.
*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', it is possible to snipe the driver out of it during the level [[Two Betrayals]], but you still cannot drive it. Also, the same applies for the Wraith after the player leaves the tunnel in [[Assault on the Control Room]], if the player steals a [[Ghost]] and heads out to the lake area where the Wraith normally is (all of course while ignoring the enemies), he can see an Elite making a mad dash for the Wraith.
File:HR-WraithHUD.png|HUD of the Wraith's operator.
*According to [[Bungie]], the type of Wraith seen in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' and ''Halo 2'' was a pre-2549 model. The type in the ''Halo 3'' era, which features a separate gunner seat, is a post-2549 model.{{Verify_source}}
</gallery>
*A Wraith in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' can be flipped over, dumping the Elite driver out and making the battle easier, although the Wraith is a hard vehicle to flip over. The easiest vehicle to flip over a Wraith would be the Banshee at top speed, although it is possible for a Warthog to flip it at certain conditions (like waiting for the first Wraith is going down a ledge in ''Assault on the Control Room'' and ramming it as it goes down) and a [[Scorpion]] (only from behind as the Wraith can smoothly surf over the Scorpion in front, although it is best to do it while it is vacant).
*If a player boosts the Wraith by tapping the left trigger and then uses the main gun by tapping the right trigger the plasma mortar will go a longer distance than it normally would. This is known as the "Boost Shot."
*The ''Halo 2'' Wraith's rate of fire is slightly faster than it is ''Halo 3''. In ''Halo 2'' multiplayer, the rate of fire is slower than it is in the campaign and the entirety of ''Halo 3''.
*If a player shoots the wings off a Wraith in ''Halo 2'' and then uses the boost function, the plasma that comes out of the wings still appears.
*The Special Edition of [[Halo Wars]] comes with a code to use the [[Honor Guard Wraith]].
*Both side wings of the Wraith can be removed, allowing to fit into sides into building that it otherwise couldn't.
*Upon close examination, the Wraith's primary cannon loses its glow for about 2-3 seconds after firing, and can launch another mortar only after the cannon's glow has returned.
*In ''Halo Wars'', when traveling the Wraith will automatically boost over terrain.
*In ''Halo Wars'', the hatch to the pilot's compartment opens as if it were on hinges, but in ''Halo 2'' and ''Halo 3'', it slides open. This is probably for visual effect.
*In ''Halo 2'', [[Rtas 'Vadum]] is shown driving a Wraith without the main gun in the firing postion, meaning it was folded into the Wraith.
*In a very early pre-release photo of Halo Wars, a different version of the Wraith can be seen. It is larger, flatter, and has a different looking cannon.
*In ''Halo 3: ODST'', the Wraith can be driven during [[Firefight]] if you perform the [[Drive an AA Wraith|glitch]] used in ''[[Halo 3]]'' to drive the [[Type-52 Anti-Aircraft Artillery|Anti-Aircraft Wraith]].


===''Halo 4''===
== Sources ==
<gallery>
<references/>
File:H4-T26WraithAGC.png|Render of an inactive Wraith.
File:Wraith H4guide.png|Another render of an inactive Wraith.
File:H4-T26WraithAGC-Active.png|Render of an active Wraith.
File:H4-Scorpion-Versus-Wraith.jpg|A Wraith battling an [[M808 Scorpion]].
File:H4-MasterChief-Versus-Wraith.jpg|[[John-117]] throws a plasma grenade on a Wraith.
File:H4-SpOps-LandGrab-Wraith-3rdPerson.jpg|A Wraith in ''Spartan Ops''.
File:H4-WraithHUD.png|HUD of the Wraith's operator.
File:H4-WraithturretHUD.png|HUD of the Wraith's gunner.
</gallery>


==List of appearances==
==Related Links==
{{col-begin}}
===Internal Links===
{{col-2}}
*[[Scorpion Tank]] - UNSC equivalent of the Wraith
*''[[Starry Night]]'' {{1st}}
*[[Type-52 Anti Aircraft Artillery]] - An anti-air variant of the Wraith
*''[[Halo: Uprising]]''
*[[Honor Guard Wraith]]-A new Wraith made specifically for the Honor Guards.
*''[[Halo 3]]''
*''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
**''[[Sadie's Story]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
**''[[The Duel]]''
**''[[Prototype]]''
*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
*''[[Halo: Reach]]''
*''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Invasion|Invasion]]''
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''
{{col-2}}
*''[[Halo 4]]''
**''[[Spartan Ops]]''
*''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
*''[[Halo: Ground Command]]''
*''[[Halo Mythos]]''
*''[[Halo: Rise of Atriox]]''
*''[[Halo: Winter Contention]]''
{{col-end}}


==Sources==
===External Links===
{{Ref/Sources}}


{{Wraiths}}
{{Covenant Vehicles}}
[[Category:Drivable vehicles]]
[[Category:The Covenant]]
[[Category:Wraith variants]]
[[Category:Vehicles]]
[[Category:Drivable Vehicles]]
[[Category:Covenant Vehicles]]
[[Category:Vehicles]]

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