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{{Era|Post}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{New Content}}
{{Ship class infobox
{{Vehicle Infobox
|image=[[File:H4 Broadsword profile.png|300px]]
|image=[[File:H4 Broadsword profile.png|300px]]
|name=F-41 ''Broadsword''
|name=F-41 Broadsword
|manufacturer=[[Misriah Armory]]<ref name="Guide"/>
|manufacturer=[[Misriah Armory]]{{Ref/Site|Id=Guide|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/intel/inteldetail/08f6accd-b605-4fa1-ac43-e6e3f877c893/broadsword|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Halo 4 Interactive Guide - Vehicles: Broadsword|D=01|M=05|Y=2013|LocalArchive=Halo 4 Interactive Guide#Vehicles}}{{Ref/Book|Id=H4VG|H4EVG|Page=114}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=158}}
|line=
|class=
|model=
|role=[[Space fighter|Exoatmospheric]] multirole [[Wikipedia:Strike fighter|strike fighter]]
|cost=
|length= {{Convert|66.3|ft|m|disp=flip|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|H4VG}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|length=
|width= {{Convert|64.5|ft|m|disp=flip|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|H4VG}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|width=
|height= {{Convert|35.7|ft|m|disp=flip|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|H4VG}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|height=
|mass= {{Convert|35|MT|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|Warfleet}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|mass=
|power=[[Fusion reactor]]{{Ref/Reuse|Warfleet}}
|max speed=
|engine=
|engine=*Two primary
*Two primary
*Two auxiliary
*Two auxiliary
|slipspace drive=Not equipped
|navigation=
|hull=
|hull=
|shielding=Yes (F41E), not rated for slipspace {{Ref/Book|Id=Warfleet|HWF|Page=28-29}}
|armament=
|armament=
*2x M1075 ASW/AC 35mm MLA<ref name="Guide"/>
*2 [[Machine-linked autocannon#M1075 ASW/AC 35mm|M1075 ASW/AC 35mm MLA cannon]]s{{Ref/Reuse|Guide}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
*2x M6088 ST/MMP<ref name="Guide"/>
*2 [[ST/Medusa missile#M6088 ST/MMP|M6088 ST/MMP missile]] delivery systems{{Ref/Reuse|Guide}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|crew=Pilot
*1 Class-III hardpoint:{{Ref/Reuse|Warfleet}}
**1 [[AAM-50XR missile|AAM-50XR dogfight missile]] or {{Ref/Reuse|Warfleet}}
**1 [[AGM-79C missile|AGM-79C anti-ship missile]] delivery system {{Ref/Reuse|Warfleet}}
**1 excavation-grade [[HAVOK tactical nuclear weapon]]{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|complement=
|complement=
|consumables=
|crew=1 [[pilot]]
|passengers=
|othersystems=
|othersystems=
|firstuse=
|era=[[Human-Covenant War]]<br>
|role=Exoatmospheric multirole [[Wikipedia:Strike fighter|strike fighter]]
[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
|affiliation=[[UNSC Defense Force]]
|introduced= c. [[2535]]{{Ref/Reuse|H4VG}}
|affiliation=[[UNSC Navy]]<br>[[UNSC Air Force]]
}}
}}
The '''F-41 Exoatmospheric Multirole Strike Fighter''', commonly known as the '''''Broadsword''''', is a VTOL atmospheric/exoatmospheric (A/X) multirole strike fighter manufactured by [[Misriah Armory]] and used by the [[UNSC Defense Force]].<ref name="Guide">[http://www.halowaypoint.com/en-US/halo4guide '''Halo 4 Interactive Guide''']</ref> Like other UNSC A/X attack craft, the Broadsword is named after a [[Wikipedia:Basket-hilted sword|bladed weapon]].
The '''F-41 Exoatmospheric Multirole Strike Fighter''' ('''F-41 EMSF'''), commonly known as the '''Broadsword''', is a VTOL atmospheric/exoatmospheric (A/X) multirole strike fighter manufactured by [[Misriah Armory]] and used by the [[United Nations Space Command]],{{Ref/Reuse|Guide}} as well as [[planet]]ary [[planetary defense force|defense force]]s.{{Ref/Reuse|Warfleet}} Like other UNSC A/X attack craft, the Broadsword is named after a [[Wikipedia:Basket-hilted sword|bladed weapon]].


==Overview==
==Overview==
The F-41 Broadsword is a versatile and well-armed A/X strike fighter typically used to engage equal or superior enemy craft in low- to zero-gravity conditions. As its kind has few equals within humanity's known arsenal, the Broadsword was designed to address the incredible speed and firepower displayed by a variety of Covenant fighters.
===Design details===
The F-41 Broadsword is a versatile and well-armed A/X strike fighter typically used to engage equal or superior enemy craft in low- to zero-gravity conditions. As its kind has few equals within humanity's known arsenal, the Broadsword was designed to address the incredible speed and firepower displayed by a variety of Covenant fighters. It is most prominently used by the [[UNSC Air Force]] in suborbital dogfights.{{Ref/Reuse|H4VG}} The [[AVIATOR-class Mjolnir]] helmet is recommended for use by Broadsword crew members.<ref>'''Halo 4''', ''[[AVIATOR-class Mjolnir]] description''</ref>


==Specifications==
The F-41E Broadsword was introduced in [[2554]], featuring an upgrade package including [[energy shielding]] derived from the [[FSS-1000 Sabre]] that covers the entire fighter and recharges when depleted, specifically conceived to withstand [[pulse laser turret]]s.{{Ref/Reuse|Warfleet}}<ref>[https://blogs.halowaypoint.com/en-us/blogs/headlines/posts/the-halo-bulletin-9-24-14 '''Halo Waypoint''': ''The Halo Bulletin: 9.24.14'']</ref><ref name="H4guide">'''[[Halo 4: Official Game Guide]] (Collector's Edition)''', ''page 60''</ref> However, these shields are not rated for [[Slipstream space|slipspace]] travel.<ref>'''Halo 4''', campaign level ''[[Midnight]]'' ('''Cortana''': ''"The fighter's shields aren't rated for slipspace!"'')</ref> As well as shields, the F-41E features an advanced sensor and target designation suite that can process hundreds of targets, on top of reformulated Titanium-A armor panels. These upgrades were considered impossible to implement fleetwide under wartime conditions, and included a range of design improvements and deferred upgrades, such as reformulated Titanium-A panels and an upgraded fusion reactor to power the shields. However, the reactor failed to meet initial output projections, and as a result shielded F-41E Broadswords have a lower top speed and acceleration than earlier, unshielded variants. It is capable of transatmospheric operations, and can reach orbit under its own power using deuterium as a propellant {{Ref/Novel|HSoR|Chapter=17}}. While not as maneuverable as dedicated atmospheric interceptors, the F-41E is considered unequaled among human fighters in close-orbit dogfights. As with other modern Broadswords, its cockpit comes with a full cyberlink interface for augmented pilots, inertial compensators to mitigate the effects of high-G turns, and targeting software compatible with [[VISR]] interfaces. Like the previous F-41D, the F-41E can fold up its wings when landing in confined hangar bays.{{Ref/Reuse|Warfleet}}
Like the [[YSS-1000 Sabre]], the F-41 Broadsword has [[Energy shielding|energy shielding]] that covers the entire fighter and recharges when depleted. However, these shields are not rated for [[Slipstream space|slipspace]] travel.<ref name="Composer">'''Halo 4''', ''campaign level [[Composer (level)|Composer]]''</ref> The Broadsword is equipped with two M1075 ASW/AC 35mm MLA cannons and two M6088 ST/MMP missile pods. It can also be equipped with an excavation-grade [[HAVOK tactical nuclear weapon]].<ref name="Composer"/> The [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Aviator]] helmet is recommended for use by Broadsword crew members.<ref>'''Halo 4''', ''[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Aviator]] description''</ref><ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUnnftLRSzs&feature=player_detailpage#t=284s ''PAX Prime 2012: Day 1'']</ref>


==History==
===Armament===
Broadswords were in service by [[2557|February 2557]],<ref>''[[Halo 4 Limited Edition]]'' - UNSC ''Infinity'' briefing packet, events calendar</ref> when several were present at the {{UNSCShip|Infinity}}'s commissioning ceremony.<ref>''The Commissioning''</ref> It is possible that the Broadsword had been introduced earlier, at least as a prototype.<ref group="note">John-117 seemed familiar with the Broadsword's existence and operation during his attack on ''Mantle's Approach'' in July 2557. This suggests that the craft may have existed in some form prior to his disappearance from UNSC-controlled space in [[2552#November|November 2552]]. However, it is also possible that Cortana used her neural link with John to help him pilot the Broadsword, effectively guiding his actions.</ref>
The Broadsword is equipped with two [[Machine-linked autocannon#M1075 ASW/AC 35mm|M1075 ASW/AC 35mm MLA cannon]]s and two [[ST/Medusa missile#M6088 ST/MMP|M6088 ST/MMP missile]] pods mounted underneath the wings. The pod's standard munition is the AIM-90E short-range dogfight missile.{{Ref/Reuse|Warfleet}} The Broadsword has a Class-III hardpoint designed to carry [[AAM-50XR missile|AAM-50XR]] dogfight missiles or [[AGM-79C missile|AGM-79C]] anti-ship missiles.{{Ref/Reuse|Warfleet}} The hardpoint can also be used to carry an excavation-grade [[HAVOK tactical nuclear weapon]].{{Ref/Reuse|Warfleet}}<ref name="Composer">'''[[Halo 4]]''', campaign level ''[[Composer (level)|Composer]]''</ref><ref name="Midnight">'''[[Halo 4]]''', campaign level ''[[Midnight]]''</ref> It bestows the fighter a great effectiveness at ensuring the destruction of enemy [[capital ship]]s.{{Ref/Reuse|H4guide}}


''[[Ivanoff Station]]'' carried Broadsword fighters in its hangar bay, though they were not used during the [[Didact]]'s attack on the station. [[SPARTAN-II Program|Spartan]] [[John-117]] armed one with a HAVOK nuclear warhead, intending to destroy the Didact's ship, ''[[Mantle's Approach]]'', before he could unleash the [[Composer]] on [[Earth]]. John caught up with ''Mantle's Approach'' just before it entered slipspace, flying beneath its shields since the Broadsword's were inadequate for slipspace travel. After arriving at Earth, he used the Broadsword to destroy the ship's point-defense guns so that the ''Infinity'' could punch a hole through the ship. Flying the fighter inside the warship's hull, the walls closed around the Broadsword and crushed it, forcing the Spartan to carry the HAVOK the rest of the way to the Composer.<ref>'''Halo 4''', ''campaign level [[Midnight]]''</ref>
==Operational history==
===Human-Covenant War===
{{Main|Human-Covenant War}}
Although the Broadsword has been in production since the mid-2530s, it was not adopted for widespread usage until the later days of the Human-Covenant War.{{Ref/Reuse|H4VG}} Regardless, tens of thousands of these space fighters were produced during the Human-Covenant War. Although intended for use with planetary defense forces and the UNSC's Air Force and Navy, the widely-distributed design plans were sent to many [[Outer Colonies]], where they were easily adapted to fabrication facilities found there. The availability of parts and the large number of trained pilots after the War has made "demilitarised" derivations of the Broadsword extremely popular with security contractors and mercenary groups.{{Ref/Reuse|Warfleet}}


In [[2558|February 2558]], six months after the [[Battle of Earth (2557)|skirmish at Earth]], ''Infinity'' returned to the Didact's [[shield world]], [[Requiem]]. Immediately after emerging from slipspace, the ship and her complement engaged the [[Covenant remnant]] fleet orbiting Requiem. At least one flight of Broadswords was launched from ''Infinity'''s hangars, shooting down many [[Type-31 Exoatmospheric Multi-role Fighter|Type-31 Seraphs]] and providing cover for the [[D79-TC Pelican|Pelican dropships]] landing troops on the shield world.<ref>'''[[Spartan Ops]] Season 1''' - [[S1/Departure|''Departure'']] opening cinematic</ref>
In [[2552#August|August 2552]], at least two Broadswords were deployed to assist [[Battle of Tribute|civilian evacuation operations]] in [[Casbah]], [[Tribute]]<ref>'''Halo 4''', multiplayer level ''[[Landfall (level)|Landfall]]''</ref> while entire squadrons were deployed with [[FSS-1000 Sabre]]s during the [[Fall of Reach]].<ref>'''[[Halo: Fleet Battles]]'''</ref>  


===Post-war===
{{Main|Post-Covenant War conflicts}}
Several were present at the {{UNSCShip|Infinity}}'s commissioning ceremony in [[2557|February 2557]].<ref>'''[[The Commissioning]]'''</ref>
After the ''Infinity'' crash-landed on the [[shield world]] [[Requiem]]'s inner surface, Broadswords were deployed to assault the [[Ur-Didact]]'s [[Cryptum]] and the {{Pattern|Zanar|light cruiser}}s besieging the ship, but not before [[SPARTAN-II Program|Spartan]] [[John-117]] had reactivated the ship's MAC defense turrets. Together, the turrets and fighters drove the Cryptum off and destroyed at least two light cruisers.<ref>'''[[Halo 4]]''', campaign level ''[[Infinity (Halo 4 level)|Infinity]]''</ref> Later, as [[Gypsy Company]] was sent on a mission to destroy Forerunner [[particle cannon]]s, at least two Broadswords were deployed by the ''Infinity'' to assist.<ref>'''[[Halo 4]]''', campaign level ''[[Reclaimer (level)|Reclaimer]]''</ref>
''[[Ivanoff Station]]'' had several F-41E Broadsword fighters in its hangar bay, though they were not used during the Didact's attack on the station.{{Ref/Reuse|Composer}} John-117 armed one with a [[HAVOK tactical nuclear weapon]], intending to destroy the Didact's ship, ''[[Mantle's Approach]]'', before he could unleash the [[Composer]] on [[Earth]]. John caught up with ''Mantle's Approach'' just before it entered slipspace, flying beneath its shields since the Broadsword's were inadequate for slipspace travel. After arriving at Earth, he used the Broadsword to destroy the ship's point-defense guns so that the ''Infinity'' could punch a hole through the ship. Flying the fighter inside the warship's hull, the walls closed around the Broadsword and crushed it, forcing the Spartan to carry the HAVOK the rest of the way to the Composer. The fighter's remains were completely destroyed when John destroyed ''Mantle's Approach'' with the nuclear weapon.{{Ref/Reuse|Midnight}}
In [[2558|February 2558]], six months after the [[New Phoenix Incident]], ''Infinity'' returned to Requiem. Immediately after emerging from slipspace, the ship and her complement [[Requiem Campaign|engaged]] the [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant|Covenant remnant]] fleet orbiting Requiem. At least one flight of Broadswords was launched from ''Infinity's'' hangars, shooting down many [[Type-31 Seraph|Seraphs]], clearing the path of and providing cover for the [[D79-TC Pelican|Pelican dropships]] landing troops on the shield world.<ref>''[[Spartan Ops]]'', [[Departure|S101 Departure]] opening cinematic</ref> Once [[Fireteam Crimson]] was sent on a mission to [[Assassination of Parg Vol|assassinate]] Sangheili terrorist [[Parg Vol]] at "[[the Gate]]," the Spartans were overwhelmed by Covenant forces. Several Broadsword fighters were then sent by ''Infinity'' to destroy the [[Ru'swum-pattern Phantom|Phantoms]] and ease Crimson's evacuation.<ref>''Spartan Ops'', [[Catherine/Hunting Trip|S103 Hunting Trip]]</ref> Later, when Crimson was sent to [[Raid on Harvester|investigate]] [[Fireteam Switchback]]'s disappearance, three Broadswords were sent to survey [[Harvester (location)|the area]] and to soften up the opposition.<ref>''Spartan Ops'', [[Scattered/Switchback|S106 Switchback]]</ref>
On March 11, [[2558]], several Broadswords were used in an attempt to destroy several [[AC-220 Vulture]]s and [[AV-22 Sparrowhawk]]s belonging to the {{UNSCShip|Spirit of Fire}} that had attacked the ''Infinity'' when the ''[[Pilgrims' Pride]]'' was pulled into the ''Infinity's'' docking bay.<ref name="HE4">'''[[Halo: Escalation]]''', ''[[Halo: Escalation Issue 4|Issue #4]]''</ref> Several Broadswords were used to counter the [[pirate]] fleet in space during the [[Operation: WHISTLE STOP]].<ref>'''[[Halo: Escalation]]''', ''[[Halo: Escalation Issue 12|Issue #12]]''</ref> One Broadsword was used to escort a Pelican carrying the UNSC's half of the [[Janus Key]] during the [[Battle of Aktis IV]], but was subsequently shot down.<ref>'''[[Halo: Escalation]]''', ''[[Halo: Escalation Issue 14|Issue #14]]''</ref>
===Created conflict===
{{Main|Created conflict}}
During the [[Mission to the Spartan-IV training station]], [[Quick to Adjust|Vergil]] temporarily shut down power so that Spartan [[Edward Buck]] could deactivate the AI [[Leonidas]] who was loyal to the [[Created]]. The brief power loss caused the force field protecting the main landing bay to be deactivated. Though no one was harmed, everything that wasn't bolted down got blasted out into space including a Broadsword that looked like it had seen better days.<ref>'''[[Halo: Bad Blood]]''', ''page 174''</ref>
During the [[Battle of Cassidy III]], the [[United Rebel Front]] launched squadrons of Broadswords painted in the Front's colors to attack a Created [[Guardian]]. The Broadswords were able to draw the Guardian away and buy time for Vergil to repair the colony's transports and evacuate people. The Guardian destroyed all of the fighters, but they gave [[Alpha-Nine]] and the Front time to evacuate as many people as they could after which the colony surrendered.<ref>'''[[Halo: Bad Blood]]''', ''Chapters 19-20''</ref>
During [[Operation: WOLFE]], Broadswords were used by the UNSC to take down [[Banished]] aircraft.{{Ref/Novel|Id=SOR17|HSoR|Chapter=17}}
==Variants==
*'''F-41D''' - A variant deployed on [[Moncton-class orbital weapon platform]]s.<ref>'''Halo: Warfleet''', page 31</ref>
*'''F-41E''' - Introduced in 2554, features reformulated Titanium-A panels, an upgraded fusion reactor, advanced target designation and tracking suite, and energy shields.{{Ref/Reuse|Warfleet}}
==Gameplay==
{{Main|Broadsword}}
The Broadsword is a usable vehicle in ''[[Halo 4]]'' while being a controllable unit in ''[[Halo: Fleet Battles]]''.
==Trivia==
Originally the Broadsword was going to be called the Turtle.{{Citation needed}}
{{Linkbox|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of F-41 Broadswords}}
==Gallery==
==Gallery==
===Concept art and illustrations===
<gallery>
File:H4 Broadsword concept art-1.jpg|Early concepts art of the Broadsword for ''[[Halo 4]]''
File:H4 Broadsword concept art-2.jpg|Finalized concept art of the Broadsword.
File:H4 BroadswordMissileMounting Concept.jpg|Concept explorations of the HAVOK missile's mounting on the Broadsword fighter.
File:H4_BroadswordFlight_Concept.jpeg|Broadsword concept art by [[Nicolas Bouvier|Sparth]].
File:Halo Escalation 4.jpg|A Broadsword battling an [[AC-220 Vulture]] on the cover of ''[[Halo: Escalation Issue 4]]''.
File:HTfS gallery Infinity.png|Broadswords engaging Banshees in ''[[Halo: Tales from Slipspace]]''
File:HaloStarfighter Concept.jpg|Concept art for the ''[[Halo: Starfighter]]'' game pitch, depicting a player-flyable Broadsword.
File:HSF Concept Broadsword action.jpg|''Halo: Starfighter'' concept art depicting the Broadsword.
File:HSF Concept Hangar boarding.jpg|''Halo: Starfighter'' concept art of pilots boarding their craft.
</gallery>
===Screenshots===
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:Commissioning-1.jpg|Broadswords at the UNSC ''Infinity'''s commissioning ceremony.
File:Commissioning-1.jpg|Broadswords at the UNSC ''Infinity''{{'}}s commissioning ceremony in ''[[The Commissioning]]''.
File:Broadsword Requiem.png|A Broadsword destroys a Seraph over Requiem.
File:Broadsword H4guide.png|A render of the Broadsword.
File:H4-F41BroadswordXMSF-Side.jpg|An F-41 Broadsword suspended in ''Ivanoff'''s hangar bay.
File:H4-Broadsword-Requiem-Dogfight.jpg|F-41 Broadswords destroy Seraphs around Requiem's entrance portal.
File:F-41 Broadsword.png|A Broadsword inside one of ''Ivanoff'''s hangar bays.
File:Broadsword Requiem.png|Another view of the Broadsword dogfighting over [[Requiem]].
File:H4-F41BroadswordXMSF-Side.jpg|An F-41 Broadsword suspended in ''Ivanoff''{{'}}s hangar bay.
File:F-41 Broadsword.png|A Broadsword inside one of ''Ivanoff''{{'}}s hangar bays.
File:Broadsword Engines.png|Close up on the Broadsword's engines.
File:Broadsword Engines.png|Close up on the Broadsword's engines.
File:H4-F41Broadsword-Cockpit.jpg|The F-41 Broadsword's cockpit.
File:H4-F41Broadsword-Cockpit-MC.jpg|An external view of the F-41 Broadsword's cockpit.
File:H4-Broadsword-HUD-Autocannon.jpg|The Broadsword's in-game HUD, with the autocannon selected.
File:H4-F41Broadsword-Cockpit.jpg|An interior view of the F-41 Broadsword's cockpit.
File:Forerunner light CIWS.jpg|The Master Chief's Broadsword inside the ''Mantle's Approach''.
File:Broadsword Escalation 4.png|A Broadsword defending the ''UNSC Infinity'' in March 2558.
File:HE12 Broadsword Squad.jpg|Broadsword squadrons depart hangar bays on the ''UNSC Infinity''.
File:HE12 Space Combat.jpg|Broadswords engaged with pirate forces over [[Ven III]].
File:HE14 Pelican Escort.jpg|A Broadsword escorting a Pelican on [[Aktis IV]].
File:HINF - Emblem icon - Broadsword Streak.png|The Broadsword Streak emblem in ''[[Halo Infinite]]''.
</gallery>
</gallery>


Line 56: Line 117:
*''[[The Commissioning]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[The Commissioning]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo 4]]''
*''[[Halo 4]]''
**''[[Spartan Ops]]''
*''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
*''[[Halo: Fleet Battles]]''
*''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
*''[[Halo Mythos]]''
*''[[Halo: Fractures]]''
**''[[Rossbach's World (story)|Rossbach's World]]''
*''[[Halo: Bad Blood]]''
*''[[Halo: Renegades]]''
*''[[Halo: Shadows of Reach]]''
*''[[Halo Infinite]]'' {{C|Emblem only}}
*''[[Halo: The Television Series]]''
**''[[Inheritance]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: The Rubicon Protocol]]''


==Note==
==Sources==
<references group="note"/>
{{Ref/Sources}}


==Sources==
{{Human aircraft}}
<references/>
{{Human Ships}}


{{UNSCDF Aircraft}}
[[Category:Space fighter classes]]
{{UNSC Ships}}
[[Category:UNSC ship classes]]
[[Category:Drivable vehicles]]

Latest revision as of 13:47, September 28, 2024

F-41 Broadsword
H4 Broadsword profile.png
Production information

Manufacturer:

Misriah Armory[1][2][3]

Role:

Exoatmospheric multirole strike fighter

Technical specifications

Length:

20.2 meters (66.3 ft)[2][3]

Width:

19.7 meters (64.5 ft)[2][3]

Height:

10.9 meters (35.7 ft)[2][3]

Mass:

35 metric tons (34 LT; 39 ST)[4][3]

Power plant:

Fusion reactor[4]

Engine(s):

  • Two primary
  • Two auxiliary

Slipspace drive:

Not equipped

Shielding:

Yes (F41E), not rated for slipspace [4]

Armament:

Crew:

1 pilot

Chronological and affiliation

Era:

Human-Covenant War
Post-Covenant War conflicts

Introduced:

c. 2535[2]

Affiliation:

UNSC Navy
UNSC Air Force

 

The F-41 Exoatmospheric Multirole Strike Fighter (F-41 EMSF), commonly known as the Broadsword, is a VTOL atmospheric/exoatmospheric (A/X) multirole strike fighter manufactured by Misriah Armory and used by the United Nations Space Command,[1] as well as planetary defense forces.[4] Like other UNSC A/X attack craft, the Broadsword is named after a bladed weapon.

Overview[edit]

Design details[edit]

The F-41 Broadsword is a versatile and well-armed A/X strike fighter typically used to engage equal or superior enemy craft in low- to zero-gravity conditions. As its kind has few equals within humanity's known arsenal, the Broadsword was designed to address the incredible speed and firepower displayed by a variety of Covenant fighters. It is most prominently used by the UNSC Air Force in suborbital dogfights.[2] The AVIATOR-class Mjolnir helmet is recommended for use by Broadsword crew members.[5]

The F-41E Broadsword was introduced in 2554, featuring an upgrade package including energy shielding derived from the FSS-1000 Sabre that covers the entire fighter and recharges when depleted, specifically conceived to withstand pulse laser turrets.[4][6][7] However, these shields are not rated for slipspace travel.[8] As well as shields, the F-41E features an advanced sensor and target designation suite that can process hundreds of targets, on top of reformulated Titanium-A armor panels. These upgrades were considered impossible to implement fleetwide under wartime conditions, and included a range of design improvements and deferred upgrades, such as reformulated Titanium-A panels and an upgraded fusion reactor to power the shields. However, the reactor failed to meet initial output projections, and as a result shielded F-41E Broadswords have a lower top speed and acceleration than earlier, unshielded variants. It is capable of transatmospheric operations, and can reach orbit under its own power using deuterium as a propellant [9]. While not as maneuverable as dedicated atmospheric interceptors, the F-41E is considered unequaled among human fighters in close-orbit dogfights. As with other modern Broadswords, its cockpit comes with a full cyberlink interface for augmented pilots, inertial compensators to mitigate the effects of high-G turns, and targeting software compatible with VISR interfaces. Like the previous F-41D, the F-41E can fold up its wings when landing in confined hangar bays.[4]

Armament[edit]

The Broadsword is equipped with two M1075 ASW/AC 35mm MLA cannons and two M6088 ST/MMP missile pods mounted underneath the wings. The pod's standard munition is the AIM-90E short-range dogfight missile.[4] The Broadsword has a Class-III hardpoint designed to carry AAM-50XR dogfight missiles or AGM-79C anti-ship missiles.[4] The hardpoint can also be used to carry an excavation-grade HAVOK tactical nuclear weapon.[4][10][11] It bestows the fighter a great effectiveness at ensuring the destruction of enemy capital ships.[7]

Operational history[edit]

Human-Covenant War[edit]

Main article: Human-Covenant War

Although the Broadsword has been in production since the mid-2530s, it was not adopted for widespread usage until the later days of the Human-Covenant War.[2] Regardless, tens of thousands of these space fighters were produced during the Human-Covenant War. Although intended for use with planetary defense forces and the UNSC's Air Force and Navy, the widely-distributed design plans were sent to many Outer Colonies, where they were easily adapted to fabrication facilities found there. The availability of parts and the large number of trained pilots after the War has made "demilitarised" derivations of the Broadsword extremely popular with security contractors and mercenary groups.[4]

In August 2552, at least two Broadswords were deployed to assist civilian evacuation operations in Casbah, Tribute[12] while entire squadrons were deployed with FSS-1000 Sabres during the Fall of Reach.[13]

Post-war[edit]

Main article: Post-Covenant War conflicts

Several were present at the UNSC Infinity's commissioning ceremony in February 2557.[14]

After the Infinity crash-landed on the shield world Requiem's inner surface, Broadswords were deployed to assault the Ur-Didact's Cryptum and the Zanar-pattern light cruisers besieging the ship, but not before Spartan John-117 had reactivated the ship's MAC defense turrets. Together, the turrets and fighters drove the Cryptum off and destroyed at least two light cruisers.[15] Later, as Gypsy Company was sent on a mission to destroy Forerunner particle cannons, at least two Broadswords were deployed by the Infinity to assist.[16]

Ivanoff Station had several F-41E Broadsword fighters in its hangar bay, though they were not used during the Didact's attack on the station.[10] John-117 armed one with a HAVOK tactical nuclear weapon, intending to destroy the Didact's ship, Mantle's Approach, before he could unleash the Composer on Earth. John caught up with Mantle's Approach just before it entered slipspace, flying beneath its shields since the Broadsword's were inadequate for slipspace travel. After arriving at Earth, he used the Broadsword to destroy the ship's point-defense guns so that the Infinity could punch a hole through the ship. Flying the fighter inside the warship's hull, the walls closed around the Broadsword and crushed it, forcing the Spartan to carry the HAVOK the rest of the way to the Composer. The fighter's remains were completely destroyed when John destroyed Mantle's Approach with the nuclear weapon.[11]

In February 2558, six months after the New Phoenix Incident, Infinity returned to Requiem. Immediately after emerging from slipspace, the ship and her complement engaged the Covenant remnant fleet orbiting Requiem. At least one flight of Broadswords was launched from Infinity's hangars, shooting down many Seraphs, clearing the path of and providing cover for the Pelican dropships landing troops on the shield world.[17] Once Fireteam Crimson was sent on a mission to assassinate Sangheili terrorist Parg Vol at "the Gate," the Spartans were overwhelmed by Covenant forces. Several Broadsword fighters were then sent by Infinity to destroy the Phantoms and ease Crimson's evacuation.[18] Later, when Crimson was sent to investigate Fireteam Switchback's disappearance, three Broadswords were sent to survey the area and to soften up the opposition.[19]

On March 11, 2558, several Broadswords were used in an attempt to destroy several AC-220 Vultures and AV-22 Sparrowhawks belonging to the UNSC Spirit of Fire that had attacked the Infinity when the Pilgrims' Pride was pulled into the Infinity's docking bay.[20] Several Broadswords were used to counter the pirate fleet in space during the Operation: WHISTLE STOP.[21] One Broadsword was used to escort a Pelican carrying the UNSC's half of the Janus Key during the Battle of Aktis IV, but was subsequently shot down.[22]

Created conflict[edit]

Main article: Created conflict

During the Mission to the Spartan-IV training station, Vergil temporarily shut down power so that Spartan Edward Buck could deactivate the AI Leonidas who was loyal to the Created. The brief power loss caused the force field protecting the main landing bay to be deactivated. Though no one was harmed, everything that wasn't bolted down got blasted out into space including a Broadsword that looked like it had seen better days.[23]

During the Battle of Cassidy III, the United Rebel Front launched squadrons of Broadswords painted in the Front's colors to attack a Created Guardian. The Broadswords were able to draw the Guardian away and buy time for Vergil to repair the colony's transports and evacuate people. The Guardian destroyed all of the fighters, but they gave Alpha-Nine and the Front time to evacuate as many people as they could after which the colony surrendered.[24]

During Operation: WOLFE, Broadswords were used by the UNSC to take down Banished aircraft.[25]

Variants[edit]

  • F-41D - A variant deployed on Moncton-class orbital weapon platforms.[26]
  • F-41E - Introduced in 2554, features reformulated Titanium-A panels, an upgraded fusion reactor, advanced target designation and tracking suite, and energy shields.[4]

Gameplay[edit]

Main article: Broadsword

The Broadsword is a usable vehicle in Halo 4 while being a controllable unit in Halo: Fleet Battles.

Trivia[edit]

Originally the Broadsword was going to be called the Turtle.[citation needed]

Main-Superintendent.png Browse more images in this article's gallery page.

Gallery[edit]

Concept art and illustrations[edit]

  • Early concepts art of the Broadsword for Halo 4

    Early concepts art of the Broadsword for Halo 4

  • Finalized concept art of the Broadsword.

    Finalized concept art of the Broadsword.

  • Concept explorations of the HAVOK missile's mounting on the Broadsword fighter.

    Concept explorations of the HAVOK missile's mounting on the Broadsword fighter.

  • Broadsword concept art by Sparth.

    Broadsword concept art by Sparth.

  • A Broadsword battling an AC-220 Vulture on the cover of Halo: Escalation Issue 4.

    A Broadsword battling an AC-220 Vulture on the cover of Halo: Escalation Issue 4.

  • Broadswords engaging Banshees in Halo: Tales from Slipspace

    Broadswords engaging Banshees in Halo: Tales from Slipspace

  • Concept art for the Halo: Starfighter game pitch, depicting a player-flyable Broadsword.

    Concept art for the Halo: Starfighter game pitch, depicting a player-flyable Broadsword.

  • Halo: Starfighter concept art depicting the Broadsword.

    Halo: Starfighter concept art depicting the Broadsword.

  • Halo: Starfighter concept art of pilots boarding their craft.

    Halo: Starfighter concept art of pilots boarding their craft.

Screenshots[edit]

  • Broadswords at the UNSC Infinity's commissioning ceremony in The Commissioning.

    Broadswords at the UNSC Infinity's commissioning ceremony in The Commissioning.

  • A render of the Broadsword.

    A render of the Broadsword.

  • F-41 Broadswords destroy Seraphs around Requiem's entrance portal.

    F-41 Broadswords destroy Seraphs around Requiem's entrance portal.

  • Another view of the Broadsword dogfighting over Requiem.

    Another view of the Broadsword dogfighting over Requiem.

  • An F-41 Broadsword suspended in Ivanoff's hangar bay.

    An F-41 Broadsword suspended in Ivanoff's hangar bay.

  • A Broadsword inside one of Ivanoff's hangar bays.

    A Broadsword inside one of Ivanoff's hangar bays.

  • Close up on the Broadsword's engines.

    Close up on the Broadsword's engines.

  • An external view of the F-41 Broadsword's cockpit.

    An external view of the F-41 Broadsword's cockpit.

  • An interior view of the F-41 Broadsword's cockpit.

    An interior view of the F-41 Broadsword's cockpit.

  • The Master Chief's Broadsword inside the Mantle's Approach.

    The Master Chief's Broadsword inside the Mantle's Approach.

  • A Broadsword defending the UNSC Infinity in March 2558.

    A Broadsword defending the UNSC Infinity in March 2558.

  • Broadsword squadrons depart hangar bays on the UNSC Infinity.

    Broadsword squadrons depart hangar bays on the UNSC Infinity.

  • Broadswords engaged with pirate forces over Ven III.

    Broadswords engaged with pirate forces over Ven III.

  • A Broadsword escorting a Pelican on Aktis IV.

    A Broadsword escorting a Pelican on Aktis IV.

  • The Broadsword Streak emblem in Halo Infinite.

    The Broadsword Streak emblem in Halo Infinite.

List of appearances[edit]

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d Halo Waypoint, Halo 4 Interactive Guide - Vehicles: Broadsword (Retrieved on May 1, 2013) [local archive] [external archive]
  2. ^ a b c d e f g Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 114
  3. ^ a b c d e f g h Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 158
  4. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n Halo: Warfleet, page 28-29
  5. ^ Halo 4, AVIATOR-class Mjolnir description
  6. ^ Halo Waypoint: The Halo Bulletin: 9.24.14
  7. ^ a b Halo 4: Official Game Guide (Collector's Edition), page 60
  8. ^ Halo 4, campaign level Midnight (Cortana: "The fighter's shields aren't rated for slipspace!")
  9. ^ Halo: Shadows of Reach, chapter 17
  10. ^ a b Halo 4, campaign level Composer
  11. ^ a b Halo 4, campaign level Midnight
  12. ^ Halo 4, multiplayer level Landfall
  13. ^ Halo: Fleet Battles
  14. ^ The Commissioning
  15. ^ Halo 4, campaign level Infinity
  16. ^ Halo 4, campaign level Reclaimer
  17. ^ Spartan Ops, S101 Departure opening cinematic
  18. ^ Spartan Ops, S103 Hunting Trip
  19. ^ Spartan Ops, S106 Switchback
  20. ^ Halo: Escalation, Issue #4
  21. ^ Halo: Escalation, Issue #12
  22. ^ Halo: Escalation, Issue #14
  23. ^ Halo: Bad Blood, page 174
  24. ^ Halo: Bad Blood, Chapters 19-20
  25. ^ Halo: Shadows of Reach, chapter 17
  26. ^ Halo: Warfleet, page 31

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