Canon

M6 Spartan Laser: Difference between revisions

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{{Weapon
{{Status|Canon}}
| image=[[Image:MediaCAGNNTYD.jpg|300px]]
{{Weapon infobox
| name=Galileian Spartan Laser
|name = W/AV M6 G/GNR "Spartan Laser"
| manufacturer=
|image = {{tabcontainer|title1=M6/E|content1=[[File:H5G-M6SpartanLaser.png|350px]]|title2=M6/R|content2=[[File:H3-M6SpartanLaser.png|350px]]|title3=M6/V|content3=[[File:HReach-M6SpartanLaser.png|350px]]|title4=M6/X|content4=[[File:H4-SpartanLaser.png|350px]]}}
| model=Weapon/Anti-Vehicle Model 6 Grindell/Galileian Nonlinear Rifle (W/AV M6 G/GNR)
|manufacturer = [[Misriah Armory]]{{Ref/Book|Id=enc22|Enc22|Page=179}}
| type=Directed<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/TopStory.aspx?link=charginmalasers   Bungie.net's article of the Spartan Laser]</ref> Energy Weapon
|series = M6
| cost=$ 218,000.00
|type = [[Directed-energy weapon]]{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
| size=98.8 cm
|cost = 218,000 [[Credit|cR]]{{Ref/Site|Id=prereleasebnet|URL=http://www.bungie.net/News/TopStory.aspx?link=charginmalasers|Site=Bungie.net|Page=Spartan Laser|D=2|M=2|Y=2007|LocalArchive=Machines, Materiel and Munitions from the Human-Covenant Conflict, 2525 - Present/M6}}{{Ref/Site|Id=bnet|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BAGSpartanLaser|Site=Bungie.net|Page=Spartan Laser|D=11|M=9|Y=2013|LocalArchive=Machines, Materiel and Munitions from the Human-Covenant Conflict, 2525 - Present/M6}}
| damage per hit=Very High
|variant =
| magazine=
* [[M6/E Spartan Laser]]
| maxammo=
* [[M6/R Spartan Laser]]
| fire=
* [[M6/V Spartan Laser]]
| ammotype=Laser Beam
* [[M6/X Spartan Laser]]
| operation=
*[[M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon]]
| rate of fire=Semi-Automatic
*[[M8C Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon]]
| accuracy=Very High
|service =
| range=Long
*[[Human-Covenant War]]{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
| era=
*[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
| counterpart=[[Fuel Rod Cannon]], [[Rocket Launcher]]
|affiliation = [[United Nations Space Command]]{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
| counterwep=
|weight =
| affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
*'''Empty''': {{Convert|19.07|kg|lb}}{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}}<br/>
*'''Loaded''': {{Convert|20.4|kg|lb}}{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}}
|length = {{Convert|98.8|cm|in}}{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}} - {{Convert|121.1|cm|in}}{{Ref/Book|Id=evg|EVG|Page=183}}
|width = {{Convert|7.7|in|cm}} {{C|M6/X}}{{Ref/Book|Id=h4evg|H4EVG|Page=69}}
|height = {{Convert|15.4|in|cm}} {{C|M6/X}}{{Ref/Reuse|h4evg}}
|ammotype = *[[BA-53635/PLMD]] battery unit {{C|M6/R}}{{Ref/Reuse|prereleasebnet}}
*[[Series 6971 battery cell]] {{C|M6/X}}{{Ref/Reuse|h4evg}}
|capacity =
|feed = 100 battery units (4 to 5 shots){{Ref/Site|Id=waypoint|D=01|M=6|Y=2020|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/spartan-laser|Site=Halo Waypoint|Section=Universe|Page=Spartan Laser}}
|operation = [[Directed-energy weapon|Directed-energy]]{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
|rate = Semi-automatic{{Ref/Reuse|evg}}
|velocity = 299,792,458 m/s (983,571,056 ft/s){{Ref/Reuse|evg}}
|optics =
|range = Long{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
}}
}}
The '''Weapon/Anti-Vehicle Model 6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Rifle''' ('''W/AV M6 G/GNR'''), colloquially known as the '''Spartan Laser''', is a man-portable and vehicle-mounted solid-state [[directed-energy weapon|directed-energy]] anti-vehicle weapon used by the [[United Nations Space Command]].{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}{{Ref/Book|Id=enc09|Enc09|Page=315}} It is the only known infantry directed-energy weapon manufactured by [[human]]s, aside from the [[Plasma rifle (Chalybs)|plasma rifle protoype]] created by [[Chalybs Defense Solutions]].


The '''Weapon/Anti-Vehicle Model 6 Grindell/Galileian Nonlinear Rifle<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/TopStory.aspx?link=charginmalasers  Bungie.net's article of the Spartan Laser]</ref>''', more commonly known as the '''Galileian <ref>[[Image:Spartan Laser.jpg|50px]] (click for greater detail)</ref> Spartan Laser''', or abbreviated as the '''"W/AV M6 G/GNR"''', is a [[United Nations Space Command]] weapon.  
==Overview==
==Introduction==
===Design details===
It is a shoulder-mounted infantry-size directed energy weapon, highly unusual for the UNSC, as most of its weaponry is consisted of ballistic metal projectiles. It fires a red laser beam that is similar to the [[Sentinel Beam]], but is quite different.<ref>http://forums.xbox.com/7661336/ShowPost.aspx</ref> The resultant beam is very powerful, and can destroy vehicles and infantry upon a hit.
The M6 G/GNR was originally created in concert with the [[GUNGNIR]] [[Mjolnir]] armor variant as part of [[Project GUNGNIR]], a program designed to provide supplementary matériel for the [[SPARTAN-II program]], hence the "Spartan Laser" moniker.{{Ref/Site|D=14|M=03|Y=2011|URL=http://halo.xbox.com/en-us/intel/theuniverse/tech/video/the-mjolnir-project-2/46e89c1a-f619-41e2-ad7f-ab65c61ca2df|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=MJOLNIR 2|LocalArchive=The MJOLNIR Project}} The M6 G/GNR is a man-portable, shoulder-fired, directed energy weapon firing a [[wikipedia:Solid-state laser|solid-state laser]].{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}} The Spartan Laser's Grindell/Galilean architecture incorporates a [[Smart-linking|smart-linked]] [[Wyrd optics suite|Wyrd III optics suite]], capable of 3× magnification for increased accuracy.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}{{Ref/Reuse|prereleasebnet}} Its reticule, whether on 1× or 3× magnifications, features a meter on the right side showing the charging status of the laser. The tick mark rests at the bottom of the circular shaped reticule while the laser is dormant, and gradually travels along the reticule's circumference until it reaches the point of origin, indicating that the laser is currently discharging.{{Ref/Game|H3|Gameplay}} Certain variants of the M6, the M6/V and the M6/X, are equipped with foldable targeting displays, allowing operators to target enemies without the use of smart-linking on their [[heads-up display]].{{Ref/Game|HR|Gameplay}}{{Ref/Reuse|h4evg}}


==Operation==
The M6 has gone through several iterations, but its changes have been mostly cosmetic.{{Ref/Reuse|evg}} For example, the M6/R variant used during the [[Human-Covenant War]] is powered by a [[BA-53635/PLMD]] non-removable battery, which recharges with a [[PP-16979/AM-Sh]] charger,{{Ref/Reuse|prereleasebnet}} whereas the M6/X variant is powered by [[Series 6971 battery cell]]s,{{Ref/Reuse|h4evg}} with little-to-no changes in performance.{{Ref/Game|H4|Gameplay}} Although the Spartan Laser was considered to be "ruinously expensive" at the time of its introduction, later refinements led to a reduction in production cost which is now only considered to be "extraordinarily expensive". Internal components have changed over time, incorporating incremental advances that have lowered production costs, and increased efficiency, but the significant advances in crystal doping and optoelectronic focusing remain largely opaque to end users.{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}}
===Targeting===
When the trigger is pulled, a harmless red dot is projected on the target. The laser will then charge for three seconds<ref name="1up">http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?cId=3155479</ref> before firing a massive, blood red laser beam that destroys everything in its path.  


The Spartan Laser is equipped with a smart-linked Wyrd III optics suite for increased accuracy.
===Operation===
[[File:The Covenant SL.jpg|thumb|left|200px|[[John-117]] firing an M6/R during the [[Battle of Installation 00]].]]
When the weapon is equipped, a shroud over the laser diode lifts up to expose it, presumably to protect it from scratches and battle damage when holstered.{{Ref/Note|In gameplay, the weapon is shown with the shroud up when it is on a person's back. This is likely due to reuse of the third-person viewmodel of the laser, which does not have the shroud covering the laser emitter.}} A small hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder on the left side of the shroud actuates the shroud where it is anchored to the chassis of the weapon. When the trigger is pulled, a red targeting laser is painted on-target accompanied by an audible whine as the weapon cycles up. The Spartan Laser will then charge for approximately three seconds before discharging the main laser. As the Spartan Laser charges, the charging tone gets noticeably louder and increases in pitch up until the laser is fired. The firing sequence can be aborted without discharging the battery as long as the weapon is not actually fired; for example, if the target moves out of sight or the operator needs to displace. Heat management forces significant downtime between shots, and so the weapon enters an approximately two-second-long standby sequence between shots.


In ''[[Halo 3]]'' [[multiplayer]], when one gets a kill with the Spartan Laser (on a vehicle or not) a [[sniper medal]] is awarded. This is because the beam that is shot is sniper like and it is very hard to aim and kill with it.
When fired, the Spartan Laser emits a solid-state laser, a powerful microsecond-long pulse of energy capable of burning through thick plates of metallic laminates, nanocomposites, or hardened steel.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}} The beam can also penetrate multiple obstacles and/or targets, provided they are aligned along a linear trajectory. The beam emitted by the M6 Spartan Laser weapons is typically a bright red. The beam is capable of eliminating all manner of targets in a very large range. When used against infantry such as [[Jiralhanae Chieftain]]s, the lasers is capable of efficiently burning through the armor and leaving a clean hole through the target and also severely damage anything behind the initial target. A single discharge from the M6/R is capable of piercing the thick armor of a {{Pattern|Ru'swum|Phantom}}.{{Ref/Reuse|prereleasebnet}}
===Laser Beam===
If the player manages to keep their reticule on their target when the beam fires, the enemy will be killed in one hit. The Galileian "Spartan Laser" can even destroy a vehicle in one hit, possibly making it the usurper of the ''[[Halo 2]]''-era Rocket Launcher in ''[[Halo 3]]''. The beam is also known to have splash damage at its impact point. The weapons has 4 shots before a "recharge" is needed.<ref name="1up"/>
{{WepList}}[[Image:SpartanLaserFiring.jpg|right|thumb|200px|The laser beam can destroy a vehicle.]][[Image:Spartan Laser2.jpg|thumb|200px|A player fires a Galileian "Spartan Laser" in [[Valhalla]]]]


It is powered by a [[BA-53635/PLMD]] non-replacable battery, which is recharged with a [[PP-16979/AM-Sh]] charger. However, UNSC logistics are sufficiently inadequate for the charger to not accompany many W/AV M6 G/GNR units in the field.
===Usage===
While there are multiple M6 variants to facilitate various specialized roles,{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}} the M6 is typically used in both anti-vehicle and anti-personnel roles.{{Ref/Reuse|prereleasebnet}} When employed in combat, the Spartan Laser had a marked effect on both allied and enemy morale.{{Ref/Reuse|prereleasebnet}} During the [[Human-Covenant War]], only [[Orbital Drop Shock Trooper]]s and Spartans were given ready access to the weapon.{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}}


==Other==
==Variants==
*From a screen shot in a magazine (shown to the right) The spartan on the hill has shot his Spartan Laser but there are multiple beams coming out. Bungie did state though that it fires a single beam. This could mean there are multiple Spartan Lasers on the map which could mean that there could also be one (or more) at each base instead of possible Rocket Launchers. However, it could mean that in this shot it is firing multiple beams as it is still in the pre-alpha stage, and the processor is not yet coded for sustained-beam projectiles or 3rd dimension tracers.
There are four known variants of the M6 Spartan Lasers:
* '''[[M6/E Spartan Laser]]''': The M6/E ("Enhanced") variant is upgraded to combat heavy armor,{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}} and functions primarily as an anti-tank ordnance.{{Ref/Site|Id=lockeandloaded|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/community/blog-posts/canon-fodder-locke-load|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Cannon Fodder: Locke & Load|D=13|M=4|Y=2016}} Its parts were miniaturized components derived from the [[M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon]] mounted on [[AV-22 Sparrowhawk]]s.{{Ref/Site|Id=localunits|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-local-units|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Cannon Fodder: Local Units|D=31|M=3|Y=2017}}
** '''[[Endgame]]''': ''Endgame'' is an improved model of the M6/E variant with a doubled battery capacity and reduced charge time. It has the downside of having less strength than its normal counterpart.
** '''[[Selene's Lance]]''': ''Selene's Lance'' is an advanced variant of the M6/E variant has a faster charge time and a longer beam duration, with 50% additional battery capacity compared to its normal counterpart.
* '''[[M6/R Spartan Laser]]''': The M6/R variant is specialized in reconnaissance deployments and scouting maneuvers.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
* '''[[M6/V Spartan Laser]]''': The M6/V variant is designed with a larger focus on operator safety via a versatile focus canopy.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
* '''[[M6/X Spartan Laser]]''': The M6/X variant is powered by [[Series 6971 battery cell]]s and featured an experimental alternating power distributor.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}


*Bungie released a faq for the upcoming halo 3 beta and the following question and answer was displayed
<gallery class=center>
File:H5G-M6SpartanLaser.png|The [[M6/E Spartan Laser]].
File:H3-M6SpartanLaser.png|The [[M6/R Spartan Laser]]
File:HReach-M6SpartanLaser.png|The [[M6/V Spartan Laser]].
File:H4-SpartanLaser.png|The [[M6/X Spartan Laser]].
</gallery>


Q:Please tell me I get to blow stuff up with the laser?
In addition, related technology has been observed on vehicle armaments:
* '''[[M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon|W/AV M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon]]''': An upgraded variant mounted on the chin of [[AV-22 Sparrowhawk|AV-22]] and [[AV-22B Sparrowhawk]]s.{{Ref/Game|Id=HWLE|HW|[[Halo Wars Limited Edition|Limited Edition]]|Detail=[[Personnel profile]] - [[:File:HWLE Anders Profile Back.jpg|Professor Anders]]}}{{Ref/Book|EVG|Page=182}} This variant has similar firing and recharge rates to the man-portable version, though it has higher damage potential and a faster charge up. Some of the components that were on the Sparrowhawk' Spartan Laser were later miniaturized and installed on infantry-portable M6/E variants after the Covenant War.{{Ref/Reuse|localunits}}
* '''[[M8C Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon]]''': A variant mounted on the [[G79H-TC Pelican]].{{Ref/Book|H4EVG|Page=113}}
* '''[[M11B nonlinear cannon]]''': A variant mounted on [[S-930 Pegasus]] prototypes.{{Ref/Site|Id=digsite|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/canon-fodder-digsite-dissection|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Cannon Fodder - Digsite Dissection|D=28|M=7|Y=2023}}
* '''Unidentified variants''': A variant of [[pulse laser turret]]s on the [[G81 Condor]] appear to be derived from similar technology, alongside the high-energy lasers employed on the [[Command Mantis]] variant.


A:You get to blow stuff up with the laser. Try lining stuff up and then firing through it all. Preferably without teammates in or around said stuff.  
==Gameplay==
{{Main|Spartan Laser}}
Variants of the M6 Spartan Laser are featured as a usable weapon in ''[[Halo 3]]'', ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'', ''[[Halo: Reach]]'', ''[[Halo 4]]'', and ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''. They are known as the [[Spartan Laser]]. It is a [[power weapon]], which fires a powerful laser that deals an incredible amount of damage, destroying all vehicles with a single well-placed shot. The Spartan Laser is one of the most powerful weapons in the game, and to compensate, it has a limited use of five shots, a short cooldown after a discharge, and inability to pick up ammo.


This suggests an ability to penatrate multiple targets with the laser
In ''[[Halo Wars]]'' campaign, [[Jerome-092]] and two of the members of [[Team Omega]] are armed with Spartan Lasers. In ''Halo Wars'' [[skirmish]], the Spartan Laser is the final upgrade available to Spartans, available through the [[UNSC Barracks]]. The [[AV-22 Sparrowhawk]], a unit exclusive to [[Ellen Anders]], is equipped with a chin-mounted Spartan Laser. In ''[[Halo Wars 2]]'' campaign, Jerome-092 again wields the Spartan Laser, while in skirmish, Jerome-092 can equip the Spartan Laser upon researching Spartan Upgrade level Two in the [[UNSC Armory]]. The UNSC Super Unit [[G81 Condor]] is equipped with twin dual laser cannons in addition to a Mini-MAC.


==Sources==
==Production notes==
<references/>
* "Grindell" may be a reference to to [[Wikipedia:Harry Grindell Matthews|Harry Grindell Matthews]], an English inventor who claimed to have invented a death ray in the 1920s. The word "Galilean" is also printed on the side of the weapon.
* As a reference to [[Project GUNGNIR|its development program]], the sides of the M6/R and M6/V have the [[List of references to Norse mythology in Halo|Norse]] symbol for [[Wikipedia:Gungnir|Gungnir]] etched into it, which was the mythical spear wielded by the god [[Wikipedia:Odin|Odin]] in Norse Mythology. Gungnir was described as having the ability to always hit its mark. Part of the mythology is that Odin would hurl his spear over the doomed side of a battle.
*During the [[development of Halo 3|development]] of ''[[Halo 3]]'', [[Bungie]] envisioned the Spartan Laser as a weapon which could be only carried by Spartans. When they were deployed onto the battlefield, infantry would call this deployment "rolling thunder".{{Ref/Twitter|Isaac_Hannaford|1376661644185464832|Isaac Hannaford|Quote=We imagined the spartan laser as a Spartan specific weapon.  When Spartans entered the battlefield soldiers would refer to their approach as rolling thunder.|D=02|M=5|Y=2021}}
* Early concept art of the ''Halo: Reach'' starfighter [[FSS-1000 Sabre]] includes the Spartan Laser, which was replaced by the [[ST/Medusa missile|Medusa missiles]] in the final design. The starfighter depicted in the concept art, along with its Spartan Laser, were later canonized as the [[S-930 Pegasus]] and the [[M11B nonlinear cannon]], respectively.{{Ref/Reuse|digsite}}


[[Category:Held Weapons]]
== Trivia ==
[[Category:Human Weapons]]
* [[Luke Smith]]'s comment on the Spartan Laser, "It's not overpowered, it's an elegant weapon from a more civilized age," is a reference to ''Star Wars''{{'}} [[StarWars:Lightsaber|lightsabers]], described as such by [[StarWars:Obi-Wan Kenobi|Obi-Wan Kenobi]].{{Ref/Site|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=12442|Site=Bungie.net|Page=Bungie Weekly Update 5/11/07|D=21|M=4|Y=2017}}
* In ''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]'', the Spartan Laser is shown to be able to deflect an energy sword and is, in that instance, [[Dual wielding|dual wielded]] with an [[M7 SMG]]. In addition, after [[Frederic-104]] fires his Spartan Laser twice, his HUD shows its battery has 80% of its power left, meaning his Spartan Laser has only expended 10% of its power with each shot. However, in ''Halo 3'', ''Halo 3: ODST'', and ''Halo: Reach'' as well as ''Halo 4'' and ''Halo 5: Guardians'', the Spartan Laser uses 20% and 25% of its battery with each shot, respectively. It is possible the Spartan Laser can change the amount of battery charge used in its shots, as the shots fired by Frederic seem dramatically weaker than those fired in the games.
 
== Gallery ==
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of M6 Spartan Laser}}
=== Concept art ===
<gallery>
File:Halo3Beta-M6SpartanLaser-crop.png|Concept art of the M6 Spartan Laser for ''[[Halo 3]]''.
File:H4_ShotgunSplaser_Concept.jpg|Concept art of the M6 Spartan Laser in ''[[Halo 4]]''.
File:H5G-spartanlaser concept final.jpg|Concept art of the M6/E Spartan Laser in ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''.
</gallery>
 
=== Screenshots ===
<gallery>
File:M6 Spartan Laser.png|An angled view of the M6/R Spartan Laser in ''Halo 3''.
File:H3-SpartanLaserHUD.png|HUD of the Spartan Laser in ''Halo 3''.
File:HW-SpartanIIsM6s.png|[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark IV|Mark IV]]-clad Spartan-IIs with Spartan Lasers in ''[[Halo Wars]]''.
File:Sparrow Laser.jpg|A [[Sparrowhawk]] fires its nose-mounted Spartan Laser. Note the blueish beam, instead of the normal red laser.
File:Fred 2.jpg|[[Frederic-104]] firing a Spartan Laser in ''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''.
File:H4-M6SpartanLaser-LeftSide.png|In-game left side view of the M6 Spartan Laser in ''Halo 4''.
File:M6_GGNR_with_active_cowling.jpg|An M6 G/GNR with the protective cowling still deployed.
File:H4-MP-M6SpartanLaser-HUD-02.jpg|HUD of the M6 Spartan Laser in ''Halo 4''{{'}}s multiplayer.
File:SarahPalmerLaser SpartanAssault.png|[[SPARTAN-IV program|Spartan]] [[Sarah Palmer]] using the M6 G/GNR against a {{Pattern|Zurdo|Wraith}} in ''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''.
File:HSS Spartan Laser.png|A Spartan-IV holding a Spartan laser in ''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''.
File:HSS_Spartan_laser_model.png|An M6 Spartan Laser in ''Halo: Spartan Strike''.
FIle:H5G-M6EHUD-Campaign.png|HUD of the M6/E Spartan Laser by [[Edward Buck]] in the ''Halo 5: Guardians'' campaign.
File:H5G-M6ESS.png|Third-person view of the M6/E Spartan Laser engaged in smart scope.
File:HO-SpartanLaser.jpg|A Spartan Laser in ''Halo Online''.
</gallery>
 
== List of appearances ==
* ''[[Believe]]''
** ''[[Diorama]]'' {{1st}} {{C|Diorama only}}
* ''[[Halo 3]]''
* ''[[Halo Wars]]''
* ''[[Halo: Helljumper]]''
* ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
* ''[[Halo Legends]]''
** ''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''
* ''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
* ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
** ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Invasion|Invasion]]''
* ''[[Halo 4]]''
** ''[[Spartan Ops]]''
* ''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''
* ''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''
* ''[[Halo: Last Light]]'' {{Mo}}
* ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''
* ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
*''[[Halo: The Television Series]]''
**''[[Solace (TV Series)|Solace]]'' {{C|Hologram only}}
*''[[Halo: Vertical Umbrage]]''
 
==Notes==
{{Ref/Notes}}
 
== Sources ==
{{Ref/Sources}}
 
{{UNSC support weapons}}
 
[[Category:Directed-energy weapons]]

Revision as of 14:22, February 13, 2024

W/AV M6 G/GNR "Spartan Laser"
M6/E
H5G-M6SpartanLaser.png
M6/R
H3-M6SpartanLaser.png
M6/V
HReach-M6SpartanLaser.png
M6/X
H4-SpartanLaser.png
Production overview

Manufacturer:

Misriah Armory[1]

Model series:

M6

Type:

Directed-energy weapon[1]

Cost:

218,000 cR[2][3]

Variants:

Specifications

Length:

98.8 centimetres (38.9 in)[3] - 121.1 centimetres (47.7 in)[4]

Width:

7.7 inches (20 cm) (M6/X)[5]

Height:

15.4 inches (39 cm) (M6/X)[5]

Weight:

  • Empty: 19.07 kilograms (42.0 lb)[3]
  • Loaded: 20.4 kilograms (45 lb)[3]

Ammunition type:

Feed system:

100 battery units (4 to 5 shots)[6]

Operation:

Directed-energy[1]

Rate of fire:

Semi-automatic[4]

Muzzle velocity:

299,792,458 m/s (983,571,056 ft/s)[4]

Effective range:

Long[1]

Service history

In service:

 

The Weapon/Anti-Vehicle Model 6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Rifle (W/AV M6 G/GNR), colloquially known as the Spartan Laser, is a man-portable and vehicle-mounted solid-state directed-energy anti-vehicle weapon used by the United Nations Space Command.[1][7] It is the only known infantry directed-energy weapon manufactured by humans, aside from the plasma rifle protoype created by Chalybs Defense Solutions.

Overview

Design details

The M6 G/GNR was originally created in concert with the GUNGNIR Mjolnir armor variant as part of Project GUNGNIR, a program designed to provide supplementary matériel for the SPARTAN-II program, hence the "Spartan Laser" moniker.[8] The M6 G/GNR is a man-portable, shoulder-fired, directed energy weapon firing a solid-state laser.[1] The Spartan Laser's Grindell/Galilean architecture incorporates a smart-linked Wyrd III optics suite, capable of 3× magnification for increased accuracy.[1][2] Its reticule, whether on 1× or 3× magnifications, features a meter on the right side showing the charging status of the laser. The tick mark rests at the bottom of the circular shaped reticule while the laser is dormant, and gradually travels along the reticule's circumference until it reaches the point of origin, indicating that the laser is currently discharging.[9] Certain variants of the M6, the M6/V and the M6/X, are equipped with foldable targeting displays, allowing operators to target enemies without the use of smart-linking on their heads-up display.[10][5]

The M6 has gone through several iterations, but its changes have been mostly cosmetic.[4] For example, the M6/R variant used during the Human-Covenant War is powered by a BA-53635/PLMD non-removable battery, which recharges with a PP-16979/AM-Sh charger,[2] whereas the M6/X variant is powered by Series 6971 battery cells,[5] with little-to-no changes in performance.[11] Although the Spartan Laser was considered to be "ruinously expensive" at the time of its introduction, later refinements led to a reduction in production cost which is now only considered to be "extraordinarily expensive". Internal components have changed over time, incorporating incremental advances that have lowered production costs, and increased efficiency, but the significant advances in crystal doping and optoelectronic focusing remain largely opaque to end users.[6]

Operation

John-117 firing an M6/R during the Battle of Installation 00.

When the weapon is equipped, a shroud over the laser diode lifts up to expose it, presumably to protect it from scratches and battle damage when holstered.[Note 1] A small hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder on the left side of the shroud actuates the shroud where it is anchored to the chassis of the weapon. When the trigger is pulled, a red targeting laser is painted on-target accompanied by an audible whine as the weapon cycles up. The Spartan Laser will then charge for approximately three seconds before discharging the main laser. As the Spartan Laser charges, the charging tone gets noticeably louder and increases in pitch up until the laser is fired. The firing sequence can be aborted without discharging the battery as long as the weapon is not actually fired; for example, if the target moves out of sight or the operator needs to displace. Heat management forces significant downtime between shots, and so the weapon enters an approximately two-second-long standby sequence between shots.

When fired, the Spartan Laser emits a solid-state laser, a powerful microsecond-long pulse of energy capable of burning through thick plates of metallic laminates, nanocomposites, or hardened steel.[1] The beam can also penetrate multiple obstacles and/or targets, provided they are aligned along a linear trajectory. The beam emitted by the M6 Spartan Laser weapons is typically a bright red. The beam is capable of eliminating all manner of targets in a very large range. When used against infantry such as Jiralhanae Chieftains, the lasers is capable of efficiently burning through the armor and leaving a clean hole through the target and also severely damage anything behind the initial target. A single discharge from the M6/R is capable of piercing the thick armor of a Ru'swum-pattern Phantom.[2]

Usage

While there are multiple M6 variants to facilitate various specialized roles,[1] the M6 is typically used in both anti-vehicle and anti-personnel roles.[2] When employed in combat, the Spartan Laser had a marked effect on both allied and enemy morale.[2] During the Human-Covenant War, only Orbital Drop Shock Troopers and Spartans were given ready access to the weapon.[6]

Variants

There are four known variants of the M6 Spartan Lasers:

  • M6/E Spartan Laser: The M6/E ("Enhanced") variant is upgraded to combat heavy armor,[1] and functions primarily as an anti-tank ordnance.[12] Its parts were miniaturized components derived from the M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon mounted on AV-22 Sparrowhawks.[13]
    • Endgame: Endgame is an improved model of the M6/E variant with a doubled battery capacity and reduced charge time. It has the downside of having less strength than its normal counterpart.
    • Selene's Lance: Selene's Lance is an advanced variant of the M6/E variant has a faster charge time and a longer beam duration, with 50% additional battery capacity compared to its normal counterpart.
  • M6/R Spartan Laser: The M6/R variant is specialized in reconnaissance deployments and scouting maneuvers.[1]
  • M6/V Spartan Laser: The M6/V variant is designed with a larger focus on operator safety via a versatile focus canopy.[1]
  • M6/X Spartan Laser: The M6/X variant is powered by Series 6971 battery cells and featured an experimental alternating power distributor.[1]

In addition, related technology has been observed on vehicle armaments:

Gameplay

Main article: Spartan Laser

Variants of the M6 Spartan Laser are featured as a usable weapon in Halo 3, Halo 3: ODST, Halo: Reach, Halo 4, and Halo 5: Guardians. They are known as the Spartan Laser. It is a power weapon, which fires a powerful laser that deals an incredible amount of damage, destroying all vehicles with a single well-placed shot. The Spartan Laser is one of the most powerful weapons in the game, and to compensate, it has a limited use of five shots, a short cooldown after a discharge, and inability to pick up ammo.

In Halo Wars campaign, Jerome-092 and two of the members of Team Omega are armed with Spartan Lasers. In Halo Wars skirmish, the Spartan Laser is the final upgrade available to Spartans, available through the UNSC Barracks. The AV-22 Sparrowhawk, a unit exclusive to Ellen Anders, is equipped with a chin-mounted Spartan Laser. In Halo Wars 2 campaign, Jerome-092 again wields the Spartan Laser, while in skirmish, Jerome-092 can equip the Spartan Laser upon researching Spartan Upgrade level Two in the UNSC Armory. The UNSC Super Unit G81 Condor is equipped with twin dual laser cannons in addition to a Mini-MAC.

Production notes

  • "Grindell" may be a reference to to Harry Grindell Matthews, an English inventor who claimed to have invented a death ray in the 1920s. The word "Galilean" is also printed on the side of the weapon.
  • As a reference to its development program, the sides of the M6/R and M6/V have the Norse symbol for Gungnir etched into it, which was the mythical spear wielded by the god Odin in Norse Mythology. Gungnir was described as having the ability to always hit its mark. Part of the mythology is that Odin would hurl his spear over the doomed side of a battle.
  • During the development of Halo 3, Bungie envisioned the Spartan Laser as a weapon which could be only carried by Spartans. When they were deployed onto the battlefield, infantry would call this deployment "rolling thunder".[18]
  • Early concept art of the Halo: Reach starfighter FSS-1000 Sabre includes the Spartan Laser, which was replaced by the Medusa missiles in the final design. The starfighter depicted in the concept art, along with its Spartan Laser, were later canonized as the S-930 Pegasus and the M11B nonlinear cannon, respectively.[17]

Trivia

  • Luke Smith's comment on the Spartan Laser, "It's not overpowered, it's an elegant weapon from a more civilized age," is a reference to Star Wars' lightsabers, described as such by Obi-Wan Kenobi.[19]
  • In The Package, the Spartan Laser is shown to be able to deflect an energy sword and is, in that instance, dual wielded with an M7 SMG. In addition, after Frederic-104 fires his Spartan Laser twice, his HUD shows its battery has 80% of its power left, meaning his Spartan Laser has only expended 10% of its power with each shot. However, in Halo 3, Halo 3: ODST, and Halo: Reach as well as Halo 4 and Halo 5: Guardians, the Spartan Laser uses 20% and 25% of its battery with each shot, respectively. It is possible the Spartan Laser can change the amount of battery charge used in its shots, as the shots fired by Frederic seem dramatically weaker than those fired in the games.

Gallery

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Concept art

  • Concept art of the M6 Spartan Laser for Halo 3.

    Concept art of the M6 Spartan Laser for Halo 3.

  • Concept art of the M6 Spartan Laser in Halo 4.

    Concept art of the M6 Spartan Laser in Halo 4.

  • Concept art of the M6/E Spartan Laser in Halo 5: Guardians.

    Concept art of the M6/E Spartan Laser in Halo 5: Guardians.

Screenshots

  • An angled view of the M6/R Spartan Laser in Halo 3.

    An angled view of the M6/R Spartan Laser in Halo 3.

  • HUD of the Spartan Laser in Halo 3.

    HUD of the Spartan Laser in Halo 3.

  • Mark IV-clad Spartan-IIs with Spartan Lasers in Halo Wars.

    Mark IV-clad Spartan-IIs with Spartan Lasers in Halo Wars.

  • A Sparrowhawk fires its nose-mounted Spartan Laser. Note the blueish beam, instead of the normal red laser.

    A Sparrowhawk fires its nose-mounted Spartan Laser. Note the blueish beam, instead of the normal red laser.

  • Frederic-104 firing a Spartan Laser in The Package.

    Frederic-104 firing a Spartan Laser in The Package.

  • In-game left side view of the M6 Spartan Laser in Halo 4.

    In-game left side view of the M6 Spartan Laser in Halo 4.

  • An M6 G/GNR with the protective cowling still deployed.

    An M6 G/GNR with the protective cowling still deployed.

  • HUD of the M6 Spartan Laser in Halo 4's multiplayer.

    HUD of the M6 Spartan Laser in Halo 4's multiplayer.

  • A Spartan-IV holding a Spartan laser in Halo: Spartan Strike.

    A Spartan-IV holding a Spartan laser in Halo: Spartan Strike.

  • An M6 Spartan Laser in Halo: Spartan Strike.

    An M6 Spartan Laser in Halo: Spartan Strike.

  • HUD of the M6/E Spartan Laser by Edward Buck in the Halo 5: Guardians campaign.

    HUD of the M6/E Spartan Laser by Edward Buck in the Halo 5: Guardians campaign.

  • Third-person view of the M6/E Spartan Laser engaged in smart scope.

    Third-person view of the M6/E Spartan Laser engaged in smart scope.

  • A Spartan Laser in Halo Online.

    A Spartan Laser in Halo Online.

List of appearances

Notes

  1. ^ In gameplay, the weapon is shown with the shroud up when it is on a person's back. This is likely due to reuse of the third-person viewmodel of the laser, which does not have the shroud covering the laser emitter.

Sources

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 179
  2. ^ a b c d e f g Bungie.net, Spartan Laser (Retrieved on Feb 2, 2007) [local archive] [external archive]
  3. ^ a b c d Bungie.net, Spartan Laser (Retrieved on Sep 11, 2013) [local archive] [external archive]
  4. ^ a b c d Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 183
  5. ^ a b c d e Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 69
  6. ^ a b c Halo Waypoint - Universe, Spartan Laser (Retrieved on Jun 1, 2020) [archive]
  7. ^ Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition), page 315
  8. ^ Halo Waypoint, MJOLNIR 2 (Retrieved on Mar 14, 2011) [local archive] [external archive]
  9. ^ Halo 3, Gameplay
  10. ^ Halo: Reach, Gameplay
  11. ^ Halo 4, Gameplay
  12. ^ Halo Waypoint, Cannon Fodder: Locke & Load (Retrieved on Apr 13, 2016) [archive]
  13. ^ a b Halo Waypoint, Cannon Fodder: Local Units (Retrieved on Mar 31, 2017) [archive]
  14. ^ Halo Wars, Limited Edition: Personnel profile - Professor Anders
  15. ^ Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 182
  16. ^ Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 113
  17. ^ a b Halo Waypoint, Cannon Fodder - Digsite Dissection (Retrieved on Jul 28, 2023) [archive]
  18. ^ Twitter, Isaac Hannaford (@Isaac_Hannaford): "We imagined the spartan laser as a Spartan specific weapon. When Spartans entered the battlefield soldiers would refer to their approach as rolling thunder." (Retrieved on May 2, 2021) [archive]
  19. ^ Bungie.net, Bungie Weekly Update 5/11/07 (Retrieved on Apr 21, 2017) [archive]

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List of infantry support weapons in UNSC service
Anti-vehicle weapons
Guided munitions launchers
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