Editing Zurdo-pattern Wraith

{{cleanup}}
{{Era|Covenant|Human|UNSC|HCW}}
{{Disambig header|the standard variant|the anti-air variant|Type-52 Anti-Aircraft Artillery}}
{{Vehicle Infobox
|image=[[File:Halo Reach Wraith 3.png|300px]]
|name=Type-26 Assault Gun Carriage
|manufacturer=[[Assembly forges]]
|line=
|model=Type-26 
|cost=
|length={{Convert|8.6|m|ft|sp=us}}
|width={{Convert|360|cm|ft}}
|height={{Convert|300|cm|ft}}
|mass={{Convert|47|ton|kg}}<ref name="ENC">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', page 247</ref>
|max speed=
|engine=[[Boosted gravity propulsion drive]]<ref>''[[Halo 2: Special Collector's Edition Manual]]'', page 17</ref>
|hull=
|sensor=
|target=
|armament=*[[Plasma mortar]] (1)
*Automated plasma cannons (2) (pre-[[2549]])
*Secondary [[Type-52 Directed Energy Support Weapon|plasma turret]] (1) (post-2549)
|crew=*1 driver
*1 gunner (post-2549)
|complement=
|consumables=
|othersystems=
|firstuse=
|role=Heavy armor
*Infantry support
*Anti-vehicle
*Anti-armor
*Siege warfare
|era=[[Human-Covenant War]]
|affiliation=[[Covenant Empire]]
}}
The '''Type-26 Assault Gun Carriage''',<ref name="ENC"/> commonly identified as the '''Wraith''' by the [[United Nations Space Command|UNSC]], is the [[Covenant Empire|Covenant]]'s main heavy assault vehicle for ground engagements. 

==Specifications==
===Design details===
[[File:Wraith.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Blueprint of the Wraith]]
The Wraith is the primary armored ground vehicle used by the [[Covenant]].<ref>'''[http://www.bungie.net/projects/reach/article.aspx?ucc=ordnance&cid=25444 Bungie.net Halo: Reach Ordnance Page]'''</ref> The Covenant deploys Wraiths as a heavy assault vehicle in tactical ground engagements, to provide anti-armor and anti-infantry firepower and also use these vehicles to bring down structures<ref name="H2spec">'''[[Halo 2: Special Collector's Edition Manual]]''' ''page 17''</ref> in the way of ground forces attempting to advance in an area.

Like all Covenant vehicles, the Wraith's design is a sleek, bulbous design more akin to an insect or an aircraft than a ground vehicle. The Wraith is composed of four major components: The chassis is the first and major component and consists of the cockpit, which includes the controls that move the tank, the controls that align the mortar on target, and one in the center that arms and fires the main battery. Holographic control surfaces and displays show the pilot a 360-degree view outside the Wraith.<ref>'''[[Halo: First Strike]]''' ''page 113''</ref> Underneath is its propulsion system consisting of a [[Boosted Gravity Propulsion Drive]]<ref name="h2manual">'''Halo 2 Manual''' ''page 19''</ref>, the chassis also contains the necessary systems that power all other systems on the vehicle. Two wide lateral fins are the second major component to the Wraith, the fins stabilize the vehicle on terrain, as well as provide the vehicle thrust to attain limited boost for enhanced maneuverability.<ref name="h2manual"/> The third major component is the rudders which control the turning of the vehicle, which utilize two independent propulsion drives to help turn the vehicle in the desired direction. The fourth major component is the Wraith's main weapon, the heavy mortar cannon. The huge bulk of the Wraith is well shielded by an armored shell that is nearly two feet thick and made up of a polymer that is not understood by human physicists.<ref name="ENC"/> 

Piloted by a single occupant, who controls all vehicle and weapons systems, the Wraith is a highly maneuverable vehicle able to traverse many different terrains. The Wraith, like all Covenant vehicles, uses a form of anti-gravity propulsion drive to cushion and absorb almost all of the recoil caused by the heavy mortar cannon.<ref name="ENC"/> The Wraith's large size and its ability to provide covering fire it from the massive Plasma Mortar makes it an extremely dangerous vehicle on the battlefield.

===Armaments=== 
The main weapon of the Type-26 AGC is the Heavy Plasma Mortar.<ref>'''Halo: Reach Manual''' ''page 9''</ref> The Type-26 AGC's plasma emitter is attached to a fixed mounting, in order to fire in a specific direction the vehicle must rotate to face the target directly.<ref name="ENC"/> The plasma mortar works by creating a large, compressed, magnetically encapsulated blob of superheated plasma and fired at a high 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 name="strike">'''[[Halo: First Strike]]''' ''page 112</ref> Titanium battleplate, concrete, or flesh is instantly obliterated by the superheated white fire. 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 caught in the flame can be burned alive and if not caught in the flames can suffer heat trauma. The concussive force released from the resulting explosion can splinter bones and destroy vital organs<ref>'''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe|Halo: Evolutions]]''', "[[Palace Hotel (short story)|Palace Hotel]]", ''page 351''</ref>. Flammable materials are especially at risk of igniting due to the intense heat release and can cause further damage. As the resulting temperatures cool, the impact zone is nothing but a glass-smooth surface.

The secondary weapon is a medium plasma weapon that is used as a anti-infantry weapon. All Type-26 AGC's in service up to 2549 were equipped with two automated plasma cannons.<ref name="H2spec"/> These plasma cannons mounted on each wing, and are operated autonomously, it is not understood what method the system uses to designate and fire upon an enemy. All Type-26 AGC's in service after 2549 are equipped with a [[Type-52 Directed Energy Support Weapon]] fixed to a ring mount that is operated by a gunner,<ref>'''[[Halo: Reach]]''' ''Career Stats''</ref> the role of the Type-52 DESW as a anti-infantry weapon means that the firepower produced by this weapon is considerably high, able to penetrate flesh with considerably gruesome results. The Type-52 DESW functions like most plasma based weapons used by the Covenant by rapidly cycling, loading, ignition, and release of plasma at high velocities. The plasma is contained and guided by a electromagnetic bottle which guides the plasma until it either travels too far away from the magnetic source and dissipates, or strikes its intended target. Against infantry, the lethality of the Type-52 DESW is severe as injuries inflicted to infantry with light body armor are severe fourth-degree burns, this level of injury completely chars all flesh, leaving only bone tissue. Body fluids along with moist tissue and flesh would be subjected to flash vaporization, and fluids trapped in organs or arteries in addition to the rapid expansion of heat would cause ruptures or small steam explosions causing additional damage to the body.

===Advantages===
The Type-26 AGC is the Covenant’s most destructive mobile armor. Its huge bulk is well shielded from small arms fire and is resistant to medium explosive weapons, its ability to provide covering fire to infantry and armor alike, in addition to dealing heavy damage to structures, infantry and armor alike makes it a inestimably dangerous thing to go up against in ground battles. Its ability to be deployed with the aid of dropships makes insertions into battlefield fairly easy — with a boost drive attached the Wraith can temporarily attain a speed boost for fast insertions, or to plow through enemy infantry, armor or obstructions in the way of the tank. Its mortar cannon provides devastating damage to anything in its ways and is known for its physiological effects on humans at the mere sight of one.<ref name="strike"/>

===Disadvantages===
The Type-26 AGC's main disadvantage is its slow speed, because of the vehicle's massive weight. While the boost drive on the vehicle can propel the vehicle to high speed the maneuverability of the vehicle is compromised — because the gravity propulsion drive does not contain anything to counter the vehicle's moving mass it is possible for the vehicle to run into anything from friendly vehicles to infantry to even propelling itself off a ledge or into a ditch. Wraiths also encounter difficulty traversing inclines and pushing through multiple barricades because of its weight and the brief nature of its boosts. Like most tanks, the Type-26 AGC has a dead area, a zone in which the mortar cannon cannot fire without risking damaging or destroying 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 Type-52 DESW, the rear is most susceptible to boarding because of a weak spot in the rear. A small rotating cylinder exhaust port in the back is a vulnerable spot that if hit with a medium explosive device can damage the tank severely. The gunner operating the Type-52 DESW is also an easy target for marksman and sniper fire; because of the massive cannon right behind the gunner the turret ring cannot traverse a full 360 degrees.

==Operational history==
The Wraith has been in service to the Covenant for over a century,<ref>'''[[Halo Legends]]''' '''[[The Duel]]'''</ref> and has served in countless 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 (structure)|an artifact]], deployed multiple Wraiths during [[Harvest Campaign|the assault]] on Harvest. 

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. 

As the war dragged on, ground campaigns conducted by the Covenant continued to employ the Wraith as their main heavy armored vehicle. During the [[Battle of Algolis|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]]. 

As the war with humanity was reaching its apex, the Covenant began updating and building up their military campaign against humanity. A new model of the Wraith was introduced to help address some issues with older models. During [[Battle of Sigma Octanus IV|the invasion]] of [[Sigma Octanus IV]] in July of 2552 the Covenant deployed numerous tanks to take out strategic areas on the planet including [[military base]]s and civilian structures. 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. 

However when the {{UNSCShip|Pillar of Autumn}} escaped, many Covenant ships followed to discover [[Installation 04|Halo]], with its discovery the Covenant rushed to destroy the human ship as fast as possible, however when the Autumn crash landed the Covenant was forced to land on the ring and hunt down the humans. During the campaign on Halo the Covenant deployed Wraith's to protect structures and destroy human encampments. Their campaign ultimately failed when Halo was destroyed by SPARTAN-117.

During the opening of the [[Battle of Earth]], the ''[[Solemn Penance]]'' managed to reach the city of [[New Mombasa]]. In the short but bloody 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. 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. 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. 

As the Battle for Earth raged on SPARTAN-117 with the full support of the {{UNSCShip|In Amber Clad}} launched a counter-strike against regret who had jumped to [[Installation 05]]. Wraiths were deployed in the same manner as they were on Installation 04, however with the threat of the UNSC attempting to stop regret the Covenant relied on more aggressive tactics against their enemy using Wraith's to do anything possible to stop the advance of SPARTAN-117. The subsequent outbreak of the [[Flood]] and [[Great Schism|internal conflict]] that consumed the Covenant, however, left all involved to fend for themselves, after the conclusion of the battle for Installation 05 the Covenant reorganized and made a final push offensive on Earth. 

With the uncovering of [[The Artifact|the Portal]], 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. After the opening of the portal and the arrival at [[Installation 00]] the Covenant deployed all their assets in a last ditch effort to stop humanity and activate the remaining Halo installations. Wraiths were front and center in this operation, although ultimately, lost to their human enemies.

==Changes==
===''Halo: Combat Evolved''===
Introduced in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', the Wraith tank first appears as a stationary scenery object on the level [[The Truth and Reconciliation]] inside a [[Truth and Reconciliation|CCS-class battlecruiser]], and then on [[Assault on the Control Room]] as an active vehicle, although the player is not able to drive the tank at all in the game. This version of the Wraith has no anti-personnel weapons, and the visual design encompasses a more purple color scheme then later versions, the mortar design is also different from other games looking more like a tube, rather than the plasma emitter 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 [[Sangheili]] driver out of the vehicle and rendering it useless. Just like the ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' Ghost, the Wraith floats noticeably higher above the ground than its ''Halo 2'' and ''Halo 3'' counterparts.

===''Halo 2''===
In ''Halo 2'', the Wraith received a graphical overhaul and its color scheme is more of a blueish color and is now drivable by the player. In addition, the Wraith now has two weapons: the standard plasma mortar and two automated plasma cannons. However, the player cannot utilize these turrets themselves, meaning that the Wraith is somewhat less effective in the player's hands. The turrets auto-target any enemy within range, making boarding a Wraith more difficult. In ''Halo 2'' when a player boards a Wraith, they must wait a few second delay before being able to fire the Wraith's Plasma Mortar. The ''Halo 2'' Wraith also includes a boost drive, capable of tripling the tank's speed for about one second and requires five seconds to recharge. 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 or Sangheili running speed.

===''Halo 3'' and ''Halo 3: ODST''===
Two different versions of the Wraith appears in ''Halo 3''. New features include visible lights, increased speed and a more accurate line of fire. However, the exposed exhaust port 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 core after removing its cover causes a violent chain reaction of explosions.  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 infantry 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. The boost feature is no longer as effective taking longer for the vehicle to achieve its optimum boost speed, although having the same top speed as its ''Halo 2'' counterpart, the tank 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.

===''Halo: Reach''===
The Wraith in ''[[Halo: Reach]]'' received a visual upgrade and is a much more green-blue in color, with a greater iridescent sheen, and a larger, more electrically charged shot. It appears to be much stronger in terms of firepower and armor, being able to destroy Scorpions in single accurate hits, and the arc of its shot is greatly reduced and is slightly faster, making it a far more deadly vehicle. However, its plasma turret now overheats like all turrets. The main gun of the Wraith can also be destroyed, rendering the Wraith useless. Unggoy are now the main operators of the plasma turret in Campaign and Firefight, which greatly simplifies matters for players as they are much easier to kill than ''Halo 3'''s Brute gunners. Whenever a wraith is hit with a [[Plasma Pistol]]'s EMP shot, the Wraith mortar will fold closed and be temporarily disabled. Because of the game's revamped physics engine, a Wraith boosting into other (smaller) vehicles will destroy them.

==Tactics==
===Campaign===
*The Wraith's mortar is extremely powerful and will severely damage anything it hits. However, it is slow to reload, so you do have time between shots to score some big hits of your own. Because of the Wraith’s thick armor, the Rocket Launcher is an ideal weapon against the massive tank. If you don't have a Rocket Launcher, jump in a Covenant Banshee or Ghost and fire away. A player can also destroy a Wraith with a few well-thrown Plasma Grenades. Keep some distance as well; the mortar shots are easier to avoid when they're lobbed at far-away targets.
*In ''Halo 2'', two small automatic weapons on the Wraith’s hood offer additional protection against nearby infantry. If, however, you manage to evade these and jump on the vehicle, you can assault the driver with melee attacks.
*On higher difficulties in ''Halo 2'', throwing grenades into the back will not destroy the Wraith, but will kill the enemy driving it after a few explosions. This is more effective compared to punching the driver at the front, as it requires less time.
*A good way to take out the Wraith, although risky, is to get in a Warthog's drivers seat and position a gunner in the back. drive the warthog in a circle around the Wraith; your gunner will do the work for you.
*In ''Halo: Reach'' the player can commandeer the Wraith by killing its gunner and operating the plasma turret, rather than boarding the vehicle. The driver will then exit the vehicle and can be killed by the player. This allows the player to commandeer the Wraith intact, without damaging it.

===Multiplayer===
*If you manage to get close to it you can board the Wraith and throw a grenade in the cockpit or engine structure, which will completely destroy the tank. An alternative is to beat the driver out without destroying the tank, which instead renders it operational, though this comes at a risk; another player can shoot you off the Wraith.
*The Wraith has different armor strengths at different points on their body. Aim the rocket launcher high up at the face of the tank near the mortar cannon. The bottom-front section of the tank is the strongest point. The tank's rear is also the weakest point on the entire vehicle. If you aim at the right spot you'll save a rocket or two. 
*When using the Wraith, it fires better on a vantage point rather then upwards. It does best at closer range eliminating smaller vehicles. 

==Trivia==
*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 player can shoot the Wraith's plasma cannons while driving.
*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', it is possible to snipe the driver out of the Wraith 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 (while ignoring the enemies), he can see a Sangheili making a mad dash for the Wraith.
*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."
*In ''Halo 2'', [[Rtas 'Vadum]] is shown driving a Wraith without the main cannon in the firing position, meaning it can be folded into the Wraith at the driver's discretion.

==Gallery==
<gallery widths="160">
File:Reach T25 TR Inact.jpg|Reference of an inactive Type-26 as it appears in ''Halo: Reach''.
File:Reach T25 TR act.jpg|Reference of an active Type-26 as it appears in ''Halo: Reach''.
File:Reach MPBeta Wraith.png|Beta render of an inactive Wraith as it appears in ''Halo: Reach''.
File:Reach T25 eng mor.jpg|Reference of the heavy plasma mortar fired by the Type-26 AGC.
File:Halo T25 TR Inact.jpg|Reference of the Type-26 AGC as it appears in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
File:HaloCE-WraithMortarTank-transparent.png|A render of the Wraith as it appears in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''
File:Halo3-WraithMortarTank.png|The Wraith in Halo 3, unoccupied.
File:WraithH3.png| The Wraith as it appears in ''Halo 3''
File:HW wraith.jpg| The Wraith as it appears in ''Halo Wars''
File:1206873195 Wraith.jpg|The ''Halo 2''-era Wraith.
</gallery>

==List of appearances==
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' {{1st}} 
*''[[Halo 2]]''
*''[[Halo 3]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
*''[[Halo: Reach]]''
*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]''
*''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
*''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
*''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''
*''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''
**''[[Palace Hotel (short story)|Palace Hotel]]''
*''[[Halo: Uprising]]''
*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
**''[[The Duel]]''
**''[[Prototype]]''

==Sources==
<references/>

==Related Links==
*[[Scorpion Tank]] - UNSC equivalent of the Wraith
*[[Type-52 Anti Aircraft Artillery]] - An anti-air variant of the Wraith

{{Covenant Vehicles}}

[[Category:Covenant Vehicles]]
@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
-{{Title|''Zurdo''-pattern Wraith}}
+{{cleanup}}
-{{Status|Canon}}
+{{Era|Covenant|Human|UNSC|HCW}}
-{{Center|Type-26 Wraith redirects here. For other types of Wraith, see [[Wraith]].}}
+{{Disambig header|the standard variant|the anti-air variant|Type-52 Anti-Aircraft Artillery}}
-{{Vehicle infobox
+{{Vehicle Infobox
-|image=[[File:H3-T26WraithAGC.png|250px]]
+|image=[[File:Halo Reach Wraith 3.png|300px]]
-|name=''Zurdo''-pattern Mortar Tank
+|name=Type-26 Assault Gun Carriage
-|manufacturer=*[[Assembly Forges]] {{C|pre-[[Great Schism]]}}{{Ref/Book|Id=evg|EVG|Page=206}}
+|manufacturer=[[Assembly forges]]
-*[[Lodam Armory]] {{C|post-Great Schism}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=275}}{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}}
 |line=
-|model=''Zurdo''-pattern
+|model=Type-26
 |cost=
-|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={{Convert|8.6|m|ft|sp=us}}
-|width={{Convert|9.2|m|ft}}{{Ref/Reuse|evg}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
+|width={{Convert|360|cm|ft}}
-|height={{Convert|3.7|m|ft}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
+|height={{Convert|300|cm|ft}}
-|mass={{Convert|47|MT}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
+|mass={{Convert|47|ton|kg}}<ref name="ENC">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', page 247</ref>
-|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 speed=
-|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}}
+|engine=[[Boosted gravity propulsion drive]]<ref>''[[Halo 2: Special Collector's Edition Manual]]'', page 17</ref>
-|hull={{Convert|61|cm|ft|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}}
+|hull=
 |sensor=
 |target=
-|armament=*1 [[Heavy plasma mortar|Type-26 35cm Directed Energy Mortar]]{{Ref/Book|Id=H4EVG|H4EVG|Page=117}}
+|armament=*[[Plasma mortar]] (1)
-*1 [[Type-26 Directed Energy Weapon Emplacement]]{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}}
+*Automated plasma cannons (2) (pre-[[2549]])
-|crew=*1 driver{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
+*Secondary [[Type-52 Directed Energy Support Weapon|plasma turret]] (1) (post-2549)
-*1 gunner{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
+|crew=*1 driver
+*1 gunner (post-2549)
 |complement=
 |consumables=
 |othersystems=
-|role=Light assault gun carriage
+|firstuse=
-*Armoured infantry support
+|role=Heavy armor
-*Mobile Anti-vehicle / anti-armor battery
+*Infantry support
-*Mobile artillery / siege warfare
+*Anti-vehicle
-|firstuse-title=In service
+*Anti-armor
-|firstuse=*[[Human-Covenant War]]
+*Siege warfare
-*[[Great Schism]]
+|era=[[Human-Covenant War]]
-*[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
+|affiliation=[[Covenant Empire]]
-**[[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}}
+The '''Type-26 Assault Gun Carriage''',<ref name="ENC"/> commonly identified as the '''Wraith''' by the [[United Nations Space Command|UNSC]], is the [[Covenant Empire|Covenant]]'s main heavy assault vehicle for ground engagements.
-==Overview==
+==Specifications==
 ===Design details===
-[[File:Wraith.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Blueprint of the Wraith.]]
+[[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 primary armored ground vehicle used by the [[Covenant]].<ref>'''[http://www.bungie.net/projects/reach/article.aspx?ucc=ordnance&cid=25444 Bungie.net Halo: Reach Ordnance Page]'''</ref> The Covenant deploys Wraiths as a heavy assault vehicle in tactical ground engagements, to provide anti-armor and anti-infantry firepower and also use these vehicles to bring down structures<ref name="H2spec">'''[[Halo 2: Special Collector's Edition Manual]]''' ''page 17''</ref> in the way of ground forces attempting to advance in an area.
-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}}
+Like all Covenant vehicles, the Wraith's design is a sleek, bulbous design more akin to an insect or an aircraft than a ground vehicle. The Wraith is composed of four major components: The chassis is the first and major component and consists of the cockpit, which includes the controls that move the tank, the controls that align the mortar on target, and one in the center that arms and fires the main battery. Holographic control surfaces and displays show the pilot a 360-degree view outside the Wraith.<ref>'''[[Halo: First Strike]]''' ''page 113''</ref> Underneath is its propulsion system consisting of a [[Boosted Gravity Propulsion Drive]]<ref name="h2manual">'''Halo 2 Manual''' ''page 19''</ref>, the chassis also contains the necessary systems that power all other systems on the vehicle. Two wide lateral fins are the second major component to the Wraith, the fins stabilize the vehicle on terrain, as well as provide the vehicle thrust to attain limited boost for enhanced maneuverability.<ref name="h2manual"/> The third major component is the rudders which control the turning of the vehicle, which utilize two independent propulsion drives to help turn the vehicle in the desired direction. The fourth major component is the Wraith's main weapon, the heavy mortar cannon. The huge bulk of the Wraith is well shielded by an armored shell that is nearly two feet thick and made up of a polymer that is not understood by human physicists.<ref name="ENC"/>
-===Armaments===
+Piloted by a single occupant, who controls all vehicle and weapons systems, the Wraith is a highly maneuverable vehicle able to traverse many different terrains. The Wraith, like all Covenant vehicles, uses a form of anti-gravity propulsion drive to cushion and absorb almost all of the recoil caused by the heavy mortar cannon.<ref name="ENC"/> The Wraith's large size and its ability to provide covering fire it from the massive Plasma Mortar makes it an extremely dangerous vehicle on the battlefield.
-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.
+===Armaments===
+The main weapon of the Type-26 AGC is the Heavy Plasma Mortar.<ref>'''Halo: Reach Manual''' ''page 9''</ref> The Type-26 AGC's plasma emitter is attached to a fixed mounting, in order to fire in a specific direction the vehicle must rotate to face the target directly.<ref name="ENC"/> The plasma mortar works by creating a large, compressed, magnetically encapsulated blob of superheated plasma and fired at a high 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 name="strike">'''[[Halo: First Strike]]''' ''page 112</ref> Titanium battleplate, concrete, or flesh is instantly obliterated by the superheated white fire. 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 caught in the flame can be burned alive and if not caught in the flames can suffer heat trauma. The concussive force released from the resulting explosion can splinter bones and destroy vital organs<ref>'''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe|Halo: Evolutions]]''', "[[Palace Hotel (short story)|Palace Hotel]]", ''page 351''</ref>. Flammable materials are especially at risk of igniting due to the intense heat release and can cause further damage. As the resulting temperatures cool, the impact zone is nothing but a glass-smooth surface.
-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}}
+The secondary weapon is a medium plasma weapon that is used as a anti-infantry weapon. All Type-26 AGC's in service up to 2549 were equipped with two automated plasma cannons.<ref name="H2spec"/> These plasma cannons mounted on each wing, and are operated autonomously, it is not understood what method the system uses to designate and fire upon an enemy. All Type-26 AGC's in service after 2549 are equipped with a [[Type-52 Directed Energy Support Weapon]] fixed to a ring mount that is operated by a gunner,<ref>'''[[Halo: Reach]]''' ''Career Stats''</ref> the role of the Type-52 DESW as a anti-infantry weapon means that the firepower produced by this weapon is considerably high, able to penetrate flesh with considerably gruesome results. The Type-52 DESW functions like most plasma based weapons used by the Covenant by rapidly cycling, loading, ignition, and release of plasma at high velocities. The plasma is contained and guided by a electromagnetic bottle which guides the plasma until it either travels too far away from the magnetic source and dissipates, or strikes its intended target. Against infantry, the lethality of the Type-52 DESW is severe as injuries inflicted to infantry with light body armor are severe fourth-degree burns, this level of injury completely chars all flesh, leaving only bone tissue. Body fluids along with moist tissue and flesh would be subjected to flash vaporization, and fluids trapped in organs or arteries in addition to the rapid expansion of heat would cause ruptures or small steam explosions causing additional damage to the body.
-<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===
-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.
+The Type-26 AGC is the Covenant’s most destructive mobile armor. Its huge bulk is well shielded from small arms fire and is resistant to medium explosive weapons, its ability to provide covering fire to infantry and armor alike, in addition to dealing heavy damage to structures, infantry and armor alike makes it a inestimably dangerous thing to go up against in ground battles. Its ability to be deployed with the aid of dropships makes insertions into battlefield fairly easy — with a boost drive attached the Wraith can temporarily attain a speed boost for fast insertions, or to plow through enemy infantry, armor or obstructions in the way of the tank. Its mortar cannon provides devastating damage to anything in its ways and is known for its physiological effects on humans at the mere sight of one.<ref name="strike"/>
 ===Disadvantages===
-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.
+The Type-26 AGC's main disadvantage is its slow speed, because of the vehicle's massive weight. While the boost drive on the vehicle can propel the vehicle to high speed the maneuverability of the vehicle is compromised — because the gravity propulsion drive does not contain anything to counter the vehicle's moving mass it is possible for the vehicle to run into anything from friendly vehicles to infantry to even propelling itself off a ledge or into a ditch. Wraiths also encounter difficulty traversing inclines and pushing through multiple barricades because of its weight and the brief nature of its boosts. Like most tanks, the Type-26 AGC has a dead area, a zone in which the mortar cannon cannot fire without risking damaging or destroying 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 Type-52 DESW, the rear is most susceptible to boarding because of a weak spot in the rear. A small rotating cylinder exhaust port in the back is a vulnerable spot that if hit with a medium explosive device can damage the tank severely. The gunner operating the Type-52 DESW is also an easy target for marksman and sniper fire; because of the massive cannon right behind the gunner the turret ring cannot traverse a full 360 degrees.
-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.
+==Operational history==
+The Wraith has been in service to the Covenant for over a century,<ref>'''[[Halo Legends]]''' '''[[The Duel]]'''</ref> and has served in countless 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 (structure)|an artifact]], deployed multiple Wraiths during [[Harvest Campaign|the assault]] on Harvest.
-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).
+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.
-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.
+As the war dragged on, ground campaigns conducted by the Covenant continued to employ the Wraith as their main heavy armored vehicle. During the [[Battle of Algolis|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]].
-==Operational history==
+As the war with humanity was reaching its apex, the Covenant began updating and building up their military campaign against humanity. A new model of the Wraith was introduced to help address some issues with older models. During [[Battle of Sigma Octanus IV|the invasion]] of [[Sigma Octanus IV]] in July of 2552 the Covenant deployed numerous tanks to take out strategic areas on the planet including [[military base]]s and civilian structures. 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.
-===Human-Covenant War===
-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.
-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]]}}
+However when the {{UNSCShip|Pillar of Autumn}} escaped, many Covenant ships followed to discover [[Installation 04|Halo]], with its discovery the Covenant rushed to destroy the human ship as fast as possible, however when the Autumn crash landed the Covenant was forced to land on the ring and hunt down the humans. During the campaign on Halo the Covenant deployed Wraith's to protect structures and destroy human encampments. Their campaign ultimately failed when Halo was destroyed by SPARTAN-117.
-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}}
+During the opening of the [[Battle of Earth]], the ''[[Solemn Penance]]'' managed to reach the city of [[New Mombasa]]. In the short but bloody 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. 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. 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.
-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}}
+As the Battle for Earth raged on SPARTAN-117 with the full support of the {{UNSCShip|In Amber Clad}} launched a counter-strike against regret who had jumped to [[Installation 05]]. Wraiths were deployed in the same manner as they were on Installation 04, however with the threat of the UNSC attempting to stop regret the Covenant relied on more aggressive tactics against their enemy using Wraith's to do anything possible to stop the advance of SPARTAN-117. The subsequent outbreak of the [[Flood]] and [[Great Schism|internal conflict]] that consumed the Covenant, however, left all involved to fend for themselves, after the conclusion of the battle for Installation 05 the Covenant reorganized and made a final push offensive on Earth.
-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}}
+With the uncovering of [[The Artifact|the Portal]], 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. After the opening of the portal and the arrival at [[Installation 00]] the Covenant deployed all their assets in a last ditch effort to stop humanity and activate the remaining Halo installations. Wraiths were front and center in this operation, although ultimately, lost to their human enemies.
-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]]}}
+==Changes==
+===''Halo: Combat Evolved''===
+Introduced in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', the Wraith tank first appears as a stationary scenery object on the level [[The Truth and Reconciliation]] inside a [[Truth and Reconciliation|CCS-class battlecruiser]], and then on [[Assault on the Control Room]] as an active vehicle, although the player is not able to drive the tank at all in the game. This version of the Wraith has no anti-personnel weapons, and the visual design encompasses a more purple color scheme then later versions, the mortar design is also different from other games looking more like a tube, rather than the plasma emitter 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 [[Sangheili]] driver out of the vehicle and rendering it useless. Just like the ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' Ghost, the Wraith floats noticeably higher above the ground than its ''Halo 2'' and ''Halo 3'' counterparts.
-===Post-War===
+===''Halo 2''===
-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]]}}
+In ''Halo 2'', the Wraith received a graphical overhaul and its color scheme is more of a blueish color and is now drivable by the player. In addition, the Wraith now has two weapons: the standard plasma mortar and two automated plasma cannons. However, the player cannot utilize these turrets themselves, meaning that the Wraith is somewhat less effective in the player's hands. The turrets auto-target any enemy within range, making boarding a Wraith more difficult. In ''Halo 2'' when a player boards a Wraith, they must wait a few second delay before being able to fire the Wraith's Plasma Mortar. The ''Halo 2'' Wraith also includes a boost drive, capable of tripling the tank's speed for about one second and requires five seconds to recharge. 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 or Sangheili running speed.
-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}}
+===''Halo 3'' and ''Halo 3: ODST''===
+Two different versions of the Wraith appears in ''Halo 3''. New features include visible lights, increased speed and a more accurate line of fire. However, the exposed exhaust port 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 core after removing its cover causes a violent chain reaction of explosions.  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 infantry 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. The boost feature is no longer as effective taking longer for the vehicle to achieve its optimum boost speed, although having the same top speed as its ''Halo 2'' counterpart, the tank 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.
-==Trivia==
+===''Halo: Reach''===
-{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes}}
+The Wraith in ''[[Halo: Reach]]'' received a visual upgrade and is a much more green-blue in color, with a greater iridescent sheen, and a larger, more electrically charged shot. It appears to be much stronger in terms of firepower and armor, being able to destroy Scorpions in single accurate hits, and the arc of its shot is greatly reduced and is slightly faster, making it a far more deadly vehicle. However, its plasma turret now overheats like all turrets. The main gun of the Wraith can also be destroyed, rendering the Wraith useless. Unggoy are now the main operators of the plasma turret in Campaign and Firefight, which greatly simplifies matters for players as they are much easier to kill than ''Halo 3'''s Brute gunners. Whenever a wraith is hit with a [[Plasma Pistol]]'s EMP shot, the Wraith mortar will fold closed and be temporarily disabled. Because of the game's revamped physics engine, a Wraith boosting into other (smaller) vehicles will destroy them.
-*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''.
-*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.
-*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.
-*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.
-*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.
-==Gallery==
+==Tactics==
-===''Halo 3''===
+===Campaign===
-<gallery>
+*The Wraith's mortar is extremely powerful and will severely damage anything it hits. However, it is slow to reload, so you do have time between shots to score some big hits of your own. Because of the Wraith’s thick armor, the Rocket Launcher is an ideal weapon against the massive tank. If you don't have a Rocket Launcher, jump in a Covenant Banshee or Ghost and fire away. A player can also destroy a Wraith with a few well-thrown Plasma Grenades. Keep some distance as well; the mortar shots are easier to avoid when they're lobbed at far-away targets.
-File:WraithH3.png|Render of an active Wraith.
+*In ''Halo 2'', two small automatic weapons on the Wraith’s hood offer additional protection against nearby infantry. If, however, you manage to evade these and jump on the vehicle, you can assault the driver with melee attacks.
-File:H3 TsavoBattle.png|A Wraith fires its mortar at a Warthog.
+*On higher difficulties in ''Halo 2'', throwing grenades into the back will not destroy the Wraith, but will kill the enemy driving it after a few explosions. This is more effective compared to punching the driver at the front, as it requires less time.
-File:H3 Wraith.jpg|A Wraith with a Jiralhanae Minor in its gunner seat.
+*A good way to take out the Wraith, although risky, is to get in a Warthog's drivers seat and position a gunner in the back. drive the warthog in a circle around the Wraith; your gunner will do the work for you.
-File:H3-Wraith.png|An active Wraith on [[Highground]] in multiplayer.
+*In ''Halo: Reach'' the player can commandeer the Wraith by killing its gunner and operating the plasma turret, rather than boarding the vehicle. The driver will then exit the vehicle and can be killed by the player. This allows the player to commandeer the Wraith intact, without damaging it.
-File:H3-WraithHUD.png|HUD of the Wraith's operator.
-File:H3-WraithturretHUD.png|HUD of the Wraith's gunner.
-</gallery>
-===''Halo 3: ODST''===
+===Multiplayer===
-<gallery>
+*If you manage to get close to it you can board the Wraith and throw a grenade in the cockpit or engine structure, which will completely destroy the tank. An alternative is to beat the driver out without destroying the tank, which instead renders it operational, though this comes at a risk; another player can shoot you off the Wraith.
-File:H3ODST KizingoBoulevardBattle3.jpg|A Wraith fires its mortar at [[Michael Crespo|Mickey]]'s Scropion.
+*The Wraith has different armor strengths at different points on their body. Aim the rocket launcher high up at the face of the tank near the mortar cannon. The bottom-front section of the tank is the strongest point. The tank's rear is also the weakest point on the entire vehicle. If you aim at the right spot you'll save a rocket or two.
-File:HTMCC-H3ODST BridgeAssault.jpg|Covenant infantry supported by Wraiths in an assault on [[ONI Alpha Site (location)|ONI Alpha Site]].
+*When using the Wraith, it fires better on a vantage point rather then upwards. It does best at closer range eliminating smaller vehicles.
-File:HTMCC-H3ODST-FloodWraith.png|The Flood using a Wraith in [[Firefight]] in ''Halo: The Master Chief Collection''.
-</gallery>
-===''Halo: Reach''===
+==Trivia==
-<gallery>
+*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 player can shoot the Wraith's plasma cannons while driving.
-File:Reach T25 TR Inact.jpg|Reference of an inactive ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraith.
+*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', it is possible to snipe the driver out of the Wraith 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 (while ignoring the enemies), he can see a Sangheili making a mad dash for the Wraith.
-File:Reach T25 TR act.jpg|Reference of an active ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraith.
+*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."
-File:Reach T25 eng mor.jpg|Reference of the heavy plasma mortar fired by the ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraith.
+*In ''Halo 2'', [[Rtas 'Vadum]] is shown driving a Wraith without the main cannon in the firing position, meaning it can be folded into the Wraith at the driver's discretion.
-File:Reach MPBeta Wraith.png|Render of an inactive Wraith in the [[Halo: Reach Multiplayer Beta|''Halo: Reach'' Multiplayer Beta]].
-File:Reach Wraith Active.png|Render of an active Wraith.
-File:Wraith symbols.png|Patterns on the Wraith.
-File:Revenant - Gameplay01.png|A {{Pattern|Rizvum|Revenant}} fighting two Wraiths.
-File:HR-WraithHUD.png|HUD of the Wraith's operator.
-</gallery>
-===''Halo 4''===
+==Gallery==
-<gallery>
+<gallery widths="160">
-File:H4-T26WraithAGC.png|Render of an inactive Wraith.
+File:Reach T25 TR Inact.jpg|Reference of an inactive Type-26 as it appears in ''Halo: Reach''.
-File:Wraith H4guide.png|Another render of an inactive Wraith.
+File:Reach T25 TR act.jpg|Reference of an active Type-26 as it appears in ''Halo: Reach''.
-File:H4-T26WraithAGC-Active.png|Render of an active Wraith.
+File:Reach MPBeta Wraith.png|Beta render of an inactive Wraith as it appears in ''Halo: Reach''.
-File:H4-Scorpion-Versus-Wraith.jpg|A Wraith battling an [[M808 Scorpion]].
+File:Reach T25 eng mor.jpg|Reference of the heavy plasma mortar fired by the Type-26 AGC.
-File:H4-MasterChief-Versus-Wraith.jpg|[[John-117]] throws a plasma grenade on a Wraith.
+File:Halo T25 TR Inact.jpg|Reference of the Type-26 AGC as it appears in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
-File:H4-SpOps-LandGrab-Wraith-3rdPerson.jpg|A Wraith in ''Spartan Ops''.
+File:HaloCE-WraithMortarTank-transparent.png|A render of the Wraith as it appears in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''
-File:H4-WraithHUD.png|HUD of the Wraith's operator.
+File:Halo3-WraithMortarTank.png|The Wraith in Halo 3, unoccupied.
-File:H4-WraithturretHUD.png|HUD of the Wraith's gunner.
+File:WraithH3.png| The Wraith as it appears in ''Halo 3''
+File:HW wraith.jpg| The Wraith as it appears in ''Halo Wars''
+File:1206873195 Wraith.jpg|The ''Halo 2''-era Wraith.
 </gallery>
 ==List of appearances==
-{{col-begin}}
+*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' {{1st}}
-{{col-2}}
+*''[[Halo 2]]''
-*''[[Starry Night]]'' {{1st}}
-*''[[Halo: Uprising]]''
 *''[[Halo 3]]''
+*''[[Halo Wars]]''
 *''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
-**''[[Sadie's Story]]''
+*''[[Halo: Reach]]''
+*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]''
+*''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
+*''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
+*''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''
+*''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''
+**''[[Palace Hotel (short story)|Palace Hotel]]''
+*''[[Halo: Uprising]]''
+*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
 *''[[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==
-{{Ref/Sources}}
+<references/>
+==Related Links==
+*[[Scorpion Tank]] - UNSC equivalent of the Wraith
+*[[Type-52 Anti Aircraft Artillery]] - An anti-air variant of the Wraith
+{{Covenant Vehicles}}
-{{Wraiths}}
+[[Category:Covenant Vehicles]]
-[[Category:Drivable vehicles]]
-[[Category:Wraith variants]]