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{{Era|HCW|Post}}
{{Title|''Kerel''-pattern assault carrier}}
{{Title|''CAS''-class assault carrier}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Cleanup}}
{{Redirect|CAS-class assault carrier|other ships of a similar classification|Covenant assault carrier}}
{{Ship Class Infobox
{{Infobox/Ships
|name= ''CAS''-class assault carrier
|name           = ''Kerel''-pattern
|image= [[File:Assault Carrier 2.jpg|300px]]
|image           = [[File:H3 Assault Carrier render.png|300px]]
|manufacturer=
|caption        =  
|class=[[Carrier|Assault carrier]]
|modules        =  
|role=*Ship-to-ship combat
{{Infobox/Ships/Class
*Fighter/interceptor deployment
|hide-class          =  
*Atmospheric fire support
|class identification = UNSC [[Three-letter ship classification system|Three-letter code]]: '''CAS'''{{Ref/Reuse|WPShadow}}{{Ref/Reuse|WPSong}}
*Command and control
|class operator      =  
|length= {{Convert|5347|m|ft}} <ref name="visual">'''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 28''</ref><ref name="HBO">[[:File:CapitalShips-scale.gif|HBO image that demonstrates the size and scale of starships in the Halo Universe]]</ref><ref name="ENC">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''page 264''</ref>
*[[Covenant]]
|width= {{Convert|2118|m|ft}}
*[[Covenant remnants]] {{C|See [[#Operators|operators]]}}
|height= {{Convert|700|m|ft}}
|class manufacturer  =  
|mass=
|class architect      =  
|power=[[Pinch fusion reactor]]
|class built          =  
|engine= [[Repulsor engine]]s
|class in service    =  
|slipspace drive=Equipped
|navigation=[[Navigation computer]]
|hull=[[Nanolaminate hull plating]]
*Equipped with energy shields
|armament=[[Pulse laser turret]]s
<br>[[Energy projector]]s
<br>[[Plasma turret]]s
|complement=Several thousand troops
<br>[[Covenant drop pod|Drop pods]]
<br>[[Type-25 Spirit]]s
<br>[[Type-26 Banshee]]s
<br>[[Type-28 boarding craft]]
<br>[[Type-29 Shadow]]s
<br>[[Type-31 Seraph]]s
<br>[[Type-47 Scarab]]s
<br>[[Type-52 Phantom]]s
|crew=
|passengers=
|othersystems=
|era=[[Human-Covenant War]]
<br>[[Great Schism]]
<br>[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
|introduced=
|affiliation=[[Covenant]]
<br>[[Thel 'Vadam's Covenant faction]]
<br>[[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant faction]]
<br>[[Merg Vol's Covenant faction]]
<br>[[Vata 'Gajat's mercenary group]]
}}
}}
{{Quote|Look at the size of that thing!|[[Edward Buck]] after an assault carrier arrives over [[New Mombasa]].<ref>'''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''', campaign level, ''[[Coastal Highway]]''</ref>}}
|hide-characteristics=
|nocollapse      = yes
|type            =
*[[Examiner (ship type)|Examiner]]{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=262}}
*[[Covenant carrier|Assault carrier]]{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|length          = {{Convert|5347|m|ft|sp=us}}{{Ref/Site|Id=WPShadow|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/vehicles/shadow-of-intent|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Shadow of Intent|D=11|M=05|Y=2021}}{{Ref/Site|Id=WPSong|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/vehicles/song-of-retribution|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Song of Retribution|D=26|M=01|Y=2021}}{{Ref/Book|Id=EVG|EVG|Page=28}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc09|Enc09|Page=264}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc11|Enc11|Page=276}}{{Ref/Book|Id=H4EVG|H4EVG|Page=195}}
|width          = {{Convert|2118|m|ft|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|WPShadow}}{{Ref/Reuse|WPSong}}{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}}{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}}
|height          = {{Convert|746|m|ft|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|WPShadow}}{{Ref/Reuse|WPSong}}{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}}
|mass            = 2.7 billion tonnes{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
|power          = [[Pinch fusion reactor]]{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
|maneuver drive  = 3× ''Raphyus''-pattern [[repulsor engine]]s{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Mythos|HM|Page=151-152|Detail=While these pages visually depict a ''Syfon''-pattern carrier, the information itself describes ''Shadow of Intent'' - canonically a ''Kerel''-pattern vessel}}
|slipspace drive = ''Primus''-pattern [[borer]] {{C|CODEN Series VI equivalent}}{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
|crew            =
*200 [[Superiors]]{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
*10 [[Huragok|Engineers]]{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
|complement      =
*3× [[Scarab]] platforms{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
*44× [[Shadow]] transports{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
*196× [[Wraith]] tanks{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
*700× [[Ghost]] scouts{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
|troops          = 40,000 warriors{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
|hull            = [[Nanolaminate]] battleplate{{Ref/Reuse|Mythos}}{{Ref/Site|Id=SoICatalog|URL=https://forums.halowaypoint.com/yaf_postsm2969311_Catalog-Interaction.aspx|Site=Halo Waypoint Forums|Page=Catalog Interaction|D=13|M=10|Y=2014|LocalArchive=Catalog/Archive/2014#Post #6|Quote=[frumentarii] threat dynamic analysis noted significant improvement in the vessels [dynamic capabilities] and alterations to [nanolaminate] hull plating}}
|shielding      = [[Energy shielding]]{{Ref/Reuse|Mythos}}
|sensors        =
|ew              =
|armaments      =
*1× [[Excavation beam|''Infernus''-pattern superheavy excavation beam]]{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
*2× [[Plasma lance|''Urpeon''-pattern superheavy plasma lances]]{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
*8× [[Plasma beam emitter|''Luxor''-pattern heavy plasma beam emitters]]{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
*24× [[Plasma torpedo|''Mictix''-pattern heavy plasma torpedo silos]]{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
*700× [[Pulse laser turret|''Ferriel''-pattern pulse lasers]]{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
|aircraft        =
*250× [[Covenant drop pod|Insertion pods]]{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
*44× [[Spirit]]/[[Phantom]] dropships{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
*20× [[R'sisho-pattern Tick|Tick]] boarding craft{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
*600× [[Banshee]] flyers{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
*192× {{Pattern|Elsedda|Banshee}} strikecraft{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
*64× [[Seraph]] strikecraft{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
*[[Ren]] shuttles{{Ref/Film|Id=Package|HLeg|Story=The Package (animated short)}}
|air facilities  = 8 [[hangar bay]]s{{Ref/Reuse|Mythos}}
}}
The '''''Kerel''-pattern assault carrier''' {{3Letter|CAS|assault carrier}} is a [[design pattern]] variation of [[assault carrier]] employed by the [[Covenant military|naval forces]] of the [[Covenant]].{{Ref/Reuse|WF}} The ''Kerel'' served the Covenant (and continues to serve its [[Covenant remnants|remnants]]) as a rarer configuration of the design, complementing the much more common {{Pattern|Syfon|assault carrier}}s. This modification is explicitly approved by the [[Hierarchs]].{{Ref/Book|Id=WF|HWF|Page=70-71}}


The '''''CAS''-class assault carrier'''<ref name="visual"/> is a large [[capital ship]] used by the [[Covenant]]. The ''CAS'' is designed for ship-to-ship combat, command and control of [[Covenant fleet|fleet]] operations, and support for ground occupation forces. Such vessels are typically deployed during invasions of worlds with high strategic value.<ref name="DD4">[http://halo.xbox.com/Content/assets/en-us/ONI/489872090930784032/93893-PRELIM.pdf '''Halo Waypoint''', ''Data Drop Four'']</ref>
==Overview==
===Design details===
[[File:HWF Shadow of Intent.jpg|thumb|left|A cutaway of the carrier.]]
The ''Kerel''-pattern carrier can be primarily distinguished from the more common {{Pattern|Syfon|assault carrier|}} by its distinctive smooth hull and rear cowling, replacing the [[city]]-like structures present on the dorsal surfaces of the ''Syfon'' design. ''Kerel''-pattern vessels were rare [[Hierarch]]-approved variants of the ''Syfon''. The basic silhouette of the ship is otherwise similar to most other Covenant carriers, with a hooked prow, immense hangar segment and a thick neck section connecting them.{{Ref/Reuse|WF}} The rear cowling is shared with [[Unidentified Covenant assault carrier class|another unidentified]] carrier [[design pattern]]. The armoured hull is composed of [[nanolaminate]] battleplate,{{Ref/Reuse|SoICatalog}} with [[Energy shielding|energy shield]] emitters supporting it.{{Ref/Reuse|Mythos}}  The ''Kerel'' has a length of {{Convert|5347|m|ft}}, a beam of {{Convert|2118|m|ft}}, and a height of {{Convert|746|m|ft}}.{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}{{Ref/Reuse|WF}} This makes it one of the largest warship classes employed by the [[Covenant fleet]] during the [[Human-Covenant War]]. Although the carrier's keel length is inferior, its width and mass are more than twice as large as even the UNSC's prototype flagship {{UNSCShip|Infinity}}, the largest vessel in human history.


==Specifications==
The [[bridge]] of the ''Kerel'' is located in an armored command pod in the center of the carrier's neck,{{Ref/Reuse|WF}} situated inside an armoured pod protected by multiple redunant energy shield generator systems and inertial compensators to provide the command crew with the utmost protection from attack.{{Ref/Reuse|Mythos}} The [[blademaster]]'s yard runs along the outermost sides of the neck, and is used to train the ship's warrior complement in [[martial arts]]. The aft of the ship houses an elaborate shrine to the Forerunners known as the Nave of the Creators, which is kept in perfect condition by the ship's crew.{{Ref/Reuse|WF}} The top section of the ship is capable of separating from the lower-aft half thanks to the application of [[Modular Dispersal Technology]], which sees the ship constructed in a decentralised fashion as such as to ensure entire segments of the ship can be detached with a minimal loss of performance. When detached in this manner, the upper-front half of the ship retains its own [[repulsor engine]]s and [[Borer]] for [[Slipstream space|slipspace]] transportation. This feature is actually intended to be used in order to detach sections of the carrier that sustained extensive damage in order to increase the chances of saving what is left of the ship and its crew for future use.{{Ref/Site|Id=waypoint|URL=http://halo.xbox.com/en-us/intel/theuniverse/tech/gallery/modular-dispersal-technology/e10ac7c3-932c-4b3a-91e5-3bf79c179b68?page=2|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Modular Dispersal Technology|D=14|M=03|Y=2011|LocalArchive=Archive:Halo Waypoint/2009 to 2014/Universe/Technology#Modular Dispersal Technology}}{{Ref/Reuse|Package}}{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}
===Superstructure and hull===
[[File:Mombasa Glassing.jpg|thumb|left|200px|A carrier glassing [[New Mombasa]].]]
The ''CAS''-class has a length of 5,347 meters (17,540 ft) , a beam of 2,118 meters (6,950 ft), and a height of 700 meters (2,300 ft). This makes it the second largest ship of the line the Covenant navy employed throughout the [[Human-Covenant War]]. Although the CAS-class carrier's keel length is inferior, its width and volume are in the realm of twice as large as even the UNSC's prototype flagship {{UNSCShip|Infinity}}, the largest vessel in human history.


The class' hull is comprised of nanolaminate plating; however, its greatest assets are its [[energy shielding|energy shields]], which are amongst the strongest in the [[Covenant fleet]]. During opening hours of the [[Battle of Earth]], the [[Prophet of Regret]]'s [[flagship]] ''[[Solemn Penance]]'' was able to penetrate Earth's orbital defense grid in spite of [[Cairo Station]] focusing fire on it.<ref name="Cairo"/> Furthermore, [[Rtas 'Vadum]] employed the tactic of ramming {{Class|CCS|battlecruiser}}s during the [[Battle of Installation 00]] with no visible damage being inflicted upon [[Shadow of Intent|his flagship]].<ref name="Ark">'''Halo 3'''</ref> A further testament to this vessel's survivability is that it was selected by the Covenant alongside the much larger {{Class|CSO|supercarrier}} to serve as the [[Hierarchs]]' personal flagships when they were not aboard the also heavily shielded ''[[High Charity]]''.<ref name="DD4"/> Like most Covenant vessels, the command deck of the ''CAS'' is buried deep within the vessel's deck, allowing it to function even with the vessel taking tremendous damage.  
===Propulsion===
For propulsion, assault carriers rely on large [[deuterium]]-[[tritium]] [[pinch fusion reactor]]s, housed in cavernous chambers,{{Ref/Level|Id=Cairo|H2|Cairo Station}} which power the ship's vital systems. The reactor is located in the centre of the ship, inside the upper hull.{{Ref/Reuse|WF}} As such, and when split into multiple components when Modularly Dispersed, the reactor is retained in the upper hull - leaving the lower component completely without power.{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}}{{Ref/Reuse|Package}} as well as the three aft-mounted ''Raphyus''-pattern [[repulsor engine]]s that propel the ship, capable of operating in a vacuum or in an atmospheric environment. For superluminal travel, a ''Primus''-pattern [[borer]] (equivalent to a CODEN Series IV [[Shaw-Fujikawa Translight Engine]]) is installed.{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}


[[File:Shadow_of_Intent_bridge.jpg|thumb|right|200px|The bridge of an assault carrier.]]
The vessel is propelled by three massive engine units, and possess, like all Covenant vessels, the ability to make pinpoint slipspace jumps in atmosphere. As shown in the Battle of Earth, such slipspace jumps cause massive discharges of [[EMP]], rivaling those set off by nuclear devices.{{Ref/Level|H3ODST|Prepare to Drop}}
Assault carriers, like the majority of Covenant ships, are characterized by their bulbous, whale-like front, sleek silhouette and pale white-blue hull. However, they also tend to be characterized by their unique swollen and bulbous "hooked" bow section that is frequently characterized to be similar to the head of a whale and would (theoretically) be a massive weakness as the ship could be blown in half comparatively easily, given its shields were down. Rather than possessing multiple smaller hangar bays, like smaller cruisers, assault carriers use a single, gargantuan hangar bay for storage of fighters, dropships, boarding craft and small capital ships, at least 500 meters long, 320 meters wide and 120 meters high. There is a second hangar bay visible, near the stern of the carrier, above the main engines.<ref name="Ark"/>


The assault carrier is also fitted with [[Modular Dispersal Technology]], giving it the ability to completely detach sections of its outer hull as well as whole corridors, as seen during [[Operation: WARM BLANKET]]. They can also separate into two distinct sections which leaves the rear section (with the main engines) behind and allows the fore-section to move away with previously hidden engines, the fore section, and likely the rear, are still slipspace-capable. Unlike its unorthodox means of use by [[Luro 'Taralumee|the Fleet Master]] in an attempt to disperse the advancing SPARTAN forces, the dispersal feature is actually intended to be used in order to detach sections of the carrier that sustained extensive damage in order to increase the chances of saving what is left of the ship and its crew for future use.
===Armaments===
Not all assault carriers are created equally - while the ''Kerel''{{'}}s most common listed weapons configuration boasts an identical armament loadout to its more common ''Syfon'' counterpart, individual ships can nonetheless display a large variety in capabilities.{{Ref/Twitter|Halo|421820788539260929|Halo|Quote=And Jul's ship is certainly a powerful example of Covenant/former-Covenant Assault Carriers but there's quite a...|D=23|M=01|Y=2023}}{{Ref/Twitter|Halo|421820856642179072|Halo|Quote=bit of variety in that ship class. Not all Assault Carriers are created equally.|D=23|M=01|Y=2023}} The configuration of weapons employed by the ''Kerel''-pattern, ''Shadow of Intent'', is listed as the following:


===Propulsion===
The ship's primary weapon is an [[Excavation beam|''Infernus''-pattern excavation beam]], the same model of excavation beam as that fitted on the much smaller {{Pattern|Sinaris|heavy destroyer}}s.{{Ref/Reuse|WF}} This weapon is mounted on the vessel's prow, and is used for artifact excavation and military compliance operations.{{Ref/Reuse|Mythos}} Augmenting this weapon are an additional two [[Plasma lance|''Urpeon''-pattern plasma lances]] for heavy anti-ship work.{{Ref/Reuse|WF}} The plasma lances are located on the dorsal surface of the ship, inside a teardrop-shaped emitter linked directly to the central pinch fusion reactor.{{Ref/Reuse|Mythos}}{{Ref/Reuse|Cairo}}
For propulsion, assault carriers rely on large [[deuterium]]-[[tritium]] [[pinch fusion reactor]]s, housed in cavernous chambers,<ref name="Cairo"/> which power the ship's vital systems, as well as the three aft-mounted [[repulsor engine]]s that propel the ship, capable of operating in a vacuum or in an atmospheric environment. They also employ non-reactive gravity drives for standard maneuvering and hovering above the surface of a planet, resisting its gravity.


The vessel is propelled by three massive engine units, and possess, like all Covenant vessels, the ability to make pinpoint slipspace jumps in atmosphere. As shown in the Battle of Earth, such slipspace jumps cause massive discharges of [[EMP]], rivaling those set off by nuclear devices.<ref>'''Halo 3: ODST''', campaign level, ''[[Prepare to Drop]]''</ref>
The class is additionally fitted with eight [[Plasma beam emitter|''Luxor''-pattern heavy plasma beam emitters]] and twenty-four [[Plasma torpedo|''Mictix''-pattern heavy plasma torpedo]] silos, alongside an array of 700 [[Pulse laser turret|''Ferriel''-pattern pulse laser]] turrets.{{Ref/Reuse|WF}} Seven [[plasma cannon]]s line the horizontal trench running across the ship's prow. These weapons can be fired individually or combined to fire their energy in one devastating mass - though require the ship's shields to be disabled to fire.{{Ref/Reuse|SoI}} The plasma cannons are likely the ''Luxor'' plasma beams or, more likely, the ''Mictix'' plasma torpedo silos, based on their usage during the [[Ambush at Duraan]].{{Ref/Reuse|SoI}}


===Crew and complement===
===Crew and complement===
The ''CAS''-class' exact crew size and complement are unknown, however its size and combat records suggest a crew of thousands. A single ''CAS''-class assault carrier is capable of deploying a military force sizeable enough to secure an entire 26th century city.<ref name="Metropolis"/> The class' cavernous main hangar has the capacity of carrying hundreds of [[Type-31 Seraph|Seraph multirole fighters]], [[Type-26 Banshee|Banshee attack craft]], [[Type-52 Phantom]] and [[Type-25 Spirit]] dropships, and [[Covenant boarding craft|boarding craft]].
[[File:H4 Prologue CAS Carrier.jpg|thumb|250px|A carrier discharging its assault aircraft over a human city.]]
''Kerel''-pattern carriers are capable of operation with a crew of as few as two hundred [[Superior]]s - even in dire circumstances such as those faced by the [[Swords of Sanghelios]] during the [[Blooding Years]].{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}{{Ref/Novel|Id=SoI|HSoI}} The hooked prow's endmost section contains living and entertainment quarters for the ship's permanent crew. Recreational facilities include habitat domes and hunting preserves, similar in nature to those of the {{Pattern|Mjern|agricultural support ship}}.{{Ref/Reuse|Mythos}}
 
When under ideal operating circumstances, a carrier can boast a troop complement of 40,000 warriors, with facilities such as the blademaster's yard for on-board training and recreation. Supplementing the troop complement is an armada of ground vehicles including three [[Scarab]] quadruped [[excavator]]s, 196 [[Wraith]] tanks and 700 [[Ghost]] scout bikes. 44 [[Shadow]] troop transports are additionally embarked aboard the carrier for groundside troop movement.{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}
 
Alongside the ground complement, ''Kerel''-pattern carriers house a massive air wing of both atmospheric and [[Space fighter|exoatmospheric strikecraft]]. Eight [[hangar bay]]s line the sides of the ship's lower section, flanking the [[gravity lift]]. These hangars have an additional large forward entrance,{{Ref/Reuse|Mythos}} and their cavernous nature is such that they are capable of housing whole smaller warships such as [[UNSC frigate]]s.{{Ref/Reuse|Ark}} The ship's air and deployment wing includes 250 [[Covenant drop pod|drop pods]], 20 {{Pattern|R'sisho|Tick}}s and 44 [[Spirit]] or [[Phantom]] [[dropship]]s for transport - for use when the massive [[gravity lift]] on the ship is unavailable. Escorting these troop transports are 600 [[Banshee]] ground attack flyers, alongside 192 of their {{Pattern|Elsedda|Banshee|}} "space Banshee" cousins for exoatmospheric intercept. 64 [[Seraph]] fighters supplement this number for heavier intercept and limited anti-ship capability.{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}


Supplementing their considerable infantry detachments, each assault carrier holds large fleets of [[Type-32 Rapid Assault Vehicle|Ghosts]] and [[Type-26 Assault Gun Carriage|Wraiths]], along with a number of [[Type-47 Ultra Heavy Assault Platform|Scarabs]]. In [[2552#November|November 2552]], the UNSC frigates ''[[UNSC Forward Unto Dawn|Forward Unto Dawn]]'' and ''[[UNSC Aegis Fate|Aegis Fate]]'' docked inside the launch bay of ''[[Shadow of Intent]]'', an assault carrier, demonstrating the immense size of the class.<ref name="Floodgate">'''[[Halo 3]]''', campaign level, ''[[Floodgate]]''</ref>
In addition to their combat complements, carriers also stock a number of [[Ren]] transport shuttles for logistics and personnel transportation.{{Ref/Reuse|Package}}


Assault carriers are often used as [[flagship]]s, leading [[Covenant fleet]]s into battle. Though designed for planetary combat, they also excel at ship-to-ship combat, possessing multiple [[pulse laser turret|pulse laser]] batteries, [[plasma turret]]s, and at least one [[energy projector]].<ref name="Cairo">'''[[Halo 2]]''', campaign level ''[[Cairo Station (level)|Cairo Station]]''</ref> Along with the larger ''CSO''-class supercarrier, the ''CAS'' is designated a "''Class-Five'' flagship carrier" by the UNSC due to its common use at the center of fleets.<ref name="DD4"/>
===Usage===
In the [[Covenant ship classification system|starship classification system]], the ''Kerel''-pattern is considered a part of the [[Examiner (ship type)|examiner]] category of vessels.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}


Given the similar design and purpose of the ''CAS'' to the ''CSO''-class supercarrier it is possible that light cruisers may even be capable of using the ''CAS'' as a refueling depot in the absence of repair and resupply stations like ''[[Unyielding Hierophant]]''. Like many vessels in the Covenant fleet the vessel was capable of rapidly deploying Covenant soldiers to the front with the use of [[Covenant drop pod|orbital insertion pods]]. Like most Covenant ships, they also possess [[gravity lift]]s, used for ferrying supplies, personnel, and vehicles from the ship and to a planet's surface.<ref name="Metropolis">'''Halo 2''', campaign level, ''[[Metropolis]]''</ref><ref>'''Halo 3: ODST''', campaign level, ''[[Uplift Reserve (level)|Uplift Reserve]]''</ref>
Within the [[Three-letter ship classification system|hull classifications]] of Covenant ships undertaken by the [[Office of Naval Intelligence]], the ''Kerel'' is one of two warships designated the CAS-class assault carrier - alongside its more common cousin the {{Pattern|Syfon|assault carrier|}}.{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}} The "S", for ''Salvation'', denotes that the ''CAS''-class assault carrier is a dedicated [[warship]].{{Ref/Site|Id=Have S'moa|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-have-s-moa|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Canon Fodder - Have S'moa|D=30|M=10|Y=2021}} Along with the Covenant's other [[Covenant assault carrier|assault carriers]] and [[Covenant supercarrier|supercarriers]], the ''Kerel''-pattern assault carrier was designated a Class-Five flagship carrier by the [[United Nations Space Command]] due to their use as a [[flagship]] of Covenant fleets.{{Ref/Generic|Id=DD4|[[Data Drop|Data Drop 4]]}}


===Armament===
''Kerel''-pattern ships are considered effective when used in fleet command and offensive [[space warfare]] roles. This puts them in contrast with the {{Pattern|Ruma|light carrier}} and {{Pattern|Sh'wada|supercarrier}}, which are both considered more useful in force deployment roles than in combat.They generally serve as the primary flagship of most fleets, working as the fleet command centre and the seat of the armada's [[fleetmaster]] or [[Supreme Commander]].{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}
As some of the largest ships in the Covenant fleet, the ''CAS''-class are favored as flagships by both Sangheili commanders and Prophet Hierarchs. As well as their exemplary shielding the vessel is also presumably amongst the most heavily armed in the Covenant. Assault carriers possess multiple [[energy projector]]s which are powerful enough to cut through UNSC capital ships on its ventral and dorsal surfaces.<ref name="Cairo"/> They also possess multiple [[pulse laser turret]]s, which are used for intercepting enemy missiles and fighters, and [[plasma turret|plasma torpedoes]] for engaging in ship-to-ship combat and assaulting planetary defenses.<ref name="Ark"/>


Throughout the war the ''CAS'' proved to be superior to human vessels in both durability and firepower, with the vessel being capable of easily destroying the much vaunted {{Class|Marathon|heavy cruiser}} with a single blast of its dorsal energy projector.
==Ships of the line==
*''[[Breath of Annihilation]]'' – A carrier serving within [[Sali 'Nyon's Covenant]].
*''[[Resplendent Fervor]]'' - The flagship of the [[Third Fleet of Glorious Consequence]].
*''[[Seeker of Truth]]'' – The flagship of the [[Fleet of Particular Justice]].
*''[[Shadow of Intent]]'' – The flagship of the [[Fleet of Retribution]].
*''[[Song of Retribution]]'' – The personal flagship of [[Supreme Commander]] [[Jul 'Mdama]].


==Operational history==
==Operational history==
[[File:AC Cargobay.jpg|thumb|left|200px|The massive launch bay of the assault carrier.]]
[[File:AC Cargobay.jpg|thumb|left|200px|The massive launch bay of the assault carrier.]]
The [[Battle of Bliss]] saw the first known deployment of the ''CAS''-class assault carrier during the [[Human-Covenant War]]. Five of these vessels alongside the smaller but more numerous {{Class|CCS|battlecruiser}}s and {{Class|CPV|heavy destroyer}}s attacked and [[glassing|glassed]] the world resulting in the deaths of all five hundred million citizens of [[Bliss]].<ref>'''[[Halo: Reach]]''', ''[[Dr. Halsey's personal journal]]''</ref> Over the next two decades of conflict the assault carrier would grow to be known as one of the most fearful inspiring vessels in the Covenant armada. 
The ''Kerel''-pattern assault carrier had entered service at least by circa [[2135]].{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}  


After the destruction of the {{Class|CSO|supercarrier}} ''[[Long Night of Solace]]'' at least three such vessels led the Covenant reinforcement fleet to assault the planet [[Reach]]. During the ensuing [[Fall of Reach]] these vessels alongside hundreds of others would lead to the destruction of humanity's largest and most well defended colony. At least one assault carrier was present at the [[Battle of Tribute]].<ref>'''Halo 4''', multiplayer map, ''[[Landfall (level)|Landfall]]'' - evacuation alert messages</ref>
During the [[Battle for Earth|deep and bloody siege of Earth]] that was still continuing, numerous assault carriers were assigned within multiple Covenant reinforcement fleets to complete the destruction of humanity's last and most important and defended stronghold.{{Ref/Comic|Id=HUI4|HU|Issue=4}} Near the end of the [[Battle of Mombasa]], at least three assault carriers that were part of a large [[Truth's fleet|Jiralhanae excavation fleet]] sent by the [[Prophet of Truth]] joined the remaining battlecruisers of the Fleet of Sacred Consecration in finishing the glassing of [[Mombasa]] and excavating the [[Portal at Voi]].{{Ref/Level|Id=Coastal Highway|ODST|Coastal Highway}} One, having exited slipspace nearby to begin glassing operations, nearly killed [[Alpha-Nine]] as they escaped in a hijacked [[Kez'katu-pattern Phantom|Phantom]].{{Ref/Reuse|Coastal Highway}} Near the end of the Battle for Earth, at least a few of survived carriers retreated with [[Anodyne Spirit|Truth's ship]] and his fleet through the portal to the Ark.{{Ref/Level|Id=The Storm|H3|The Storm}}


Months later two such vessels led the [[Fleet of Sacred Consecration]] to [[Earth]], where they engaged the [[UNSC Navy|UNSC]] [[UNSC Home Fleet|Home Fleet]] in orbit above [[Africa]]. The first one, carrying the [[Prophet of Regret]] himself, managed to penetrate Earth's orbital defenses. The second attempted to follow, but was subsequently destroyed by [[SPARTAN-II Program|SPARTAN]] [[John-117]].  
The assault carrier ''[[Shadow of Intent]]'' later became the flagship of the [[Fleet of Retribution]], which also includes another assault carrier.{{Ref/Level|Id=heretic|H3|Heretic}} The [[Special Operations Commander]] and [[Fleetmaster]] [[Rtas 'Vadum]], in command of the ship, led his fleet to Earth in pursuit of a surviving [[Flood]] [[Indulgence of Conviction|ship]], arriving in time to [[Glassing|glass]] the [[Voi|infected area]] of the planet.{{Ref/Level|H3|Floodgate}} ''Shadow of Intent'' and its escorting cruisers joined the remnants of the UNSC Home Fleet's [[Seventh Fleet]] to launch a joint attack on the Covenant at [[Installation 00]], destroying their fleet and providing a distraction while ground forces engaged Truth's loyalists that had landed on the installation.{{Ref/Level|H3|The Covenant (level)|The Covenant}}{{Ref/Level|Id=Ark|H3|The Ark (level)|The Ark}} It later evacuated the UNSC and Sangheili personnel and returned to Earth for a short time before returning to [[Sanghelios]].{{Ref/Level|H3|Halo (Halo 3 level)|Halo}} The ''Shadow of Intent'' later became embroiled in a conflict with [[Tem'Bhetek's faction]] which was seeking revenge against the Sangheili. After defeating the faction, Rtas decided to seek out the surviving [[San'Shyuum]].{{Ref/Novel|SoI}}{{Ref/Reuse|Mythos}}{{Ref/Reuse|WF}}


The Prophet of Regret's assault carrier ''[[Solemn Penance]]'' fled to slipspace, as the UNSC forces were likely to recapture the city of [[New Mombasa]] with the {{UNSCShip|In Amber Clad}} following close behind in its slipspace wake, leading human forces to [[Installation 05]].
By [[2554]], [[Jul 'Mdama]], a [[shipmaster]] and [[Supreme Commander]] of his [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant|self-proclaimed Covenant]] commanded the assault carrier ''[[Song of Retribution]]'' during his attempts to enter the [[Forerunner]] [[shield world]] [[Requiem]].{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}} [[2557|Three years later]], the ''Song of Retribution'' led a fleet of numerous {{Pattern|Zanar|light cruiser}}s.{{Ref/Game|H4|Terminals (Halo 4)|Terminal 1}} After [[Sali 'Nyon's Covenant|rebelling]] against Jul, [[Sali 'Nyon]] stole away the assault carrier ''[[Breath of Annihilation]]'' from him.{{Ref/Reuse|Record}}


Another assault carrier, ''[[Shadow of Intent]]'', later became the flagship of the ''[[Fleet of Retribution]]''. [[Rtas 'Vadum]], in command of the ship, led his fleet to Earth in pursuit of a surviving [[Flood]] [[Unidentified Flood-captured battlecruiser|ship]], arriving in time to [[Glassing|glass]] the infected area of the planet. ''Shadow of Intent'' and its escorting cruisers joined the remnants of the UNSC Home Fleet to launch a joint attack on the Covenant at [[Installation 00]], destroying their fleet and providing a distraction while ground forces engaged Truth's loyalists that had landed on the installation. It later evacuated the UNSC and Sangheili personnel and returned to Earth for a short time before returning to [[Sanghelios]].
Numerous assault carriers were present at the peace talks on [[Ealen IV]] under the command of the Arbiter, [[Thel 'Vadam]], and the Elder Jiralhanae Chieftain, [[Lydus]]. Many assault carriers were also used under the command of [[Vata 'Gajat]] during the [[Battle of Ealen IV|battle]] that ensued in an attempt to capture the delegates.{{Ref/Reuse|HE1}}


By [[2554]], [[Jul 'Mdama]], a [[shipmaster]] and leader of the [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant faction|revived Covenant]] commanded the assault carrier ''[[Song of Retribution]]'' during his attempts to enter the [[Forerunner]] [[shield world]] [[Requiem]].<ref name="H4EVG">'''[[Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide]]'''</ref> [[2557|Three years later]], the ''Song of Retribution'' led a fleet of numerous [[CRS-class light cruiser]]s.<ref name="terminal">[http://halo.xbox.com/en-us/Universe/detail/halo-4-terminal-jul-mdama/0f378de5-e0e3-4f31-a1e1-2a363af4094d '''Halo Waypoint:''' ''Halo 4 Terminal: Jul 'Mdama'']</ref>
===Operators===
{{Expand-section}}
''Kerel''-pattern carriers were employed by the various [[Ministry|ministries]] of the [[Covenant]], during the empire's reign. Following the empire's dissolution, ''Kerel''-pattern carriers fell into the hands of the [[Covenant remnants|imperial remnant]] warlords.
====Covenant====
*[[Fleet of Particular Justice]]
**''[[Seeker of Truth]]''
*[[Third Fleet of Glorious Consequence]]
**''[[Resplendent Fervor]]''
*[[Truth's fleet]]
**Dozens of ''Kerel''-pattern assault carriers.
*Due to their huge resource investment, nearly all ''Kerel''-pattern vessels were under the control of the Covenant prior to the empire's collapse. As such, all ships listed in the remnant listings below were likely a part of the Covenant fleet prior to its dissolution.


Numerous assault carriers were present at the peace talks on [[Ealen IV]] under the command of the Arbiter, [[Thel 'Vadam|Thel 'Vadam]], and the Elder Chieftain of the Jiralhanae, [[Lydus|Lydus]]. Many assault carriers were also used under the command of [[Vata 'Gajat]] during the [[Battle of Ealen IV|battle]] that ensued in an attempt to capture the delegates.
====Covenant remnants====
 
*[[Children of Oth Sonin]]
==Known assault carriers==
**At least two ''Kerel''-pattern carriers.{{Ref/Reuse|HE1}}
*''[[Clarity of Faith]]'' – A carrier serving under the [[Ministry of Fortitude]].
*[[Swords of Sanghelios]]
*''[[Resplendent Fervor]]'' – The flagship of the [[Third Fleet of Glorious Consequence]]
**Multiple ''Kerel''-pattern carriers.
*''[[Seeker of Truth]]'' – The flagship of the [[Fleet of Particular Justice]].
***''[[Shadow of Intent]]''
*''[[Shadow of Intent]]'' – The flagship of the [[Fleet of Retribution]].
***2 to 3 carriers utilized during the [[Attack on Ealen IV]].{{Ref/Comic|Id=HE1|HE|Issue=1}}
*''[[Solemn Penance]]'' – The personal flagship of the [[Prophet of Regret]].
*[[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant]] {{C|defunct}}
*A second carrier, possibly escorting Regret's carrier, survived the human defense when attacking Earth, but was destroyed by the Master Chief using a Covenant bomb intended to destroy the [[Orbital defense platform|Orbital Defense Platform]] ''[[Cairo Station|Cairo]]''.
**''[[Song of Retribution]]''  
*''[[Song of Retribution]]'' – The personal flagship of [[Supreme Commander]] [[Jul 'Mdama]].
**''[[Breath of Annihilation]]''
*[[Sali 'Nyon's Covenant]]
**At least one ''Kerel''-patern carrier, ''[[Breath of Annihilation]]''.{{Ref/Comic|Id=Record|HE|Issue=The Absolute Record}}
*[[Merg Vol's Covenant]]
**At least four ''Kerel''-pattern carriers.{{Ref/Level|HSA|Operation A: Umbra}}
*[[Vata 'Gajat's mercenary group]]
**At least four ''Kerel''-pattern carriers.{{Ref/Reuse|HE1}}


==Trivia==
==Production notes==
{{Linkbox|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of Covenant assault carriers}}
''Kerel''-pattern assault carriers were first introduced into the series as the assault carrier design featured in ''[[Halo 2]]'' and ''[[Halo 3]]'' - then-known by the name of the CAS-class assault carrier. The design remained relatively consistent until the release of the ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'' in [[2014]], with the [[Blur Studio]] cutscenes depicting ''[[Solemn Penance]]'' differently. The two designs were later canonised in [[2017]]'s ''[[Halo: Warfleet – An Illustrated Guide to the Spacecraft of Halo]]'' as two individual [[design pattern]]s of Covenant carrier that serve alongside one another in the Covenant fleet.
*An [[Early Halo 2 script|early draft]] of ''[[Halo 2]]'' was intended to feature a level tentatively called ''[[Covenant Ship|Covenant ship]]'', in which John-117 would board an assault carrier and destroy it from within.<ref>''[[Halo 3 Legendary Edition]]'' developer commentary</ref>
*In the [[Wikipedia:United States Navy|modern US Navy]], the term "assault carrier" refers to the [[Wikipedia:Amphibious assault ship|Amphibious Assault Ship]], which is used to transport troops over water and offload them via hovercraft or helicopter.
*In ''Halo 2'', Regret's carrier has visible structures on the surface above the engines. However, in ''Halo 3: ODST'', these structures are not visible, but are rather obscured or replaced by what seems to be a second hangar bay.
*In ''Halo: Reach'', assault carriers and [[CSO-class supercarrier|supercarriers]] share the same model in order to save in-game resources. This is why the assault carriers appear to be colored purple in the ending [[cutscene]] of the campaign level ''[[Long Night of Solace (level)|Long Night of Solace]]''.
*[[343_industries|343 industries]] stated "Not all Assault Carriers are created equally" meaning that more variants may exist and may have different abilities.<ref>https://twitter.com/HaloArchive/status/420738117885112321</ref>


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
===Concept art===
<gallery>
File:H2_CAS_HighCharity_Concept.jpg|Concept art for [[High Charity]] in ''Halo 2'', which would later become the carrier design.
File:H2_DeltaHalo_V1_Storyboard_Intro_17.jpg|An [[Halo 2 storyboards|early storyboard]] depicting an assault carrier engaging {{UNSCShip|In Amber Clad}} in ''Halo 2''.
File:MDT.png|Concept art for ''[[Halo: Legends]]'': ''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]'' of an assault carrier's fore and aft sections separated by Modular Dispersal Technology.
File:ThePackage Corridor Concept.png|''The Package'' concept art for a CAS' interior corridors.
File:ThePackage Confrontation Concept.png|''The Package'' concept art for a chamber on the CAS' interior.
</gallery>
===Screenshots===
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:H2 Assault Carrier render.png|Front view of the ''CAS''-class assault carrier.
File:H2-CAS-AssaultCarrier-Side.png|A render of a ''CAS''-class assault carrier from ''[[Halo 2]]''.
File:Overview - Covenant Assault Carrier.png|An overview of the assault carrier.
File:Assault carrier.jpg|The ''Solemn Penance'' hangs ominously in the clouds over [[New Mombasa]] in ''Halo 2''.
File:Covenant Assault Carrier FanArt.jpg|An assault carrier entering slipspace.
File:Covenant Pinch Fusion reactor.jpg|An assault carrier's [[pinch fusion reactor]] in ''Halo 2''.
File:Firing Energy Projector.png|An assault carrier firing its dorsal energy projector at [[John-117]] during the [[Battle of Earth]].
File:Firing Energy Projector.png|An assault carrier firing its dorsal energy projector at [[John-117]] during the [[Battle for Earth]].
File:Master Chief Collection - Carrier.png|The dorsal energy projector of a CAS-class assault carrier.
File:SOEIV Interface.png|''Solemn Penance'' over New Mombasa as seen from the [[Rookie]]'s [[Single Occupant Exoatmospheric Insertion Vehicle|SOEIV]].
File:Assault carrier.jpg|The Prophet of Regret's assault carrier hangs ominously in the clouds over [[New Mombasa]].
File:AssaultCarrierOverNewMombasa.jpg|Numerous assault carriers around [[Portal at Voi|portal]] to the [[Installation 00|Ark]] in the [[Halo 3 Announcement Trailer|''Halo 3'' announcement trailer]].
File:AssaultCarrierOverNewMombasa.jpg|Numerous assault carriers around [[Portal at Voi|portal]] to the [[Installation 00|Ark]] in the [[Halo 3 Announcement Trailer|''Halo 3'' announcement trailer]].
File:Assault Carrier 2.jpg|An assault carrier being accompanied by several ''Ket''-pattern battlecruisers.
File:H3-CAS-AssaultCarrier-Cruiser-Comparison.png|A ''CAS''-class assault carrier compared to a {{Pattern|Ket|battlecruiser}} in ''Halo 3''.
File:Overview - Covenant Assault Carrier.png|An overview of the Kerel pattern Assault Carrier.
File:Image-Acuc.JPG|A forward view of ''Shadow of Intent''.
File:Image-Acuc.JPG|A forward view of ''Shadow of Intent''.
File:Ark3.jpg|A UNSC frigate flying under an assault carrier. Note the size of the carrier's hangar.
File:Ark3.jpg|A UNSC frigate flying under an assault carrier. Note the size of the carrier's hangar.
File:Floodgate2.jpg|The interior of an assault carrier's hanger bay. Note the UNSC frigate and dropships of both Covenant and human design in dock.
File:Assault-Carrier-Side upload.jpg|A side view of the assault carrier ''Shadow of Intent''. Note that there is a second hangar above the engines at the stern of the ship.
File:Assault-Carrier-Side upload.jpg|A side view of the assault carrier ''Shadow of Intent''. Note that there is a second hangar above the engines at the stern of the ship.
File:Assault-Carrier-Top upload.jpg|A top-down view of the assault carrier ''Shadow of Intent''. Note that there is a second hangar above the engines at the stern of the ship.
File:Assault-Carrier-Top upload.jpg|A top-down view of the assault carrier ''Shadow of Intent''. Note that there is a second hangar above the engines at the stern of the ship.
File:H3-AssaultCarrier-Underside.jpg|A full view of the carrier's underside.  
File:H3-AssaultCarrier-Underside.jpg|A full view of the carrier's underside.  
File:CapitalShips-scale.gif|Assault carrier scale.
File:Clarity of Faith.png|A forward view of ''[[Clarity of Faith]]''.
File:Ark Secret Room.jpg|The bridge of ''Shadow of Intent''.
File:Ark Secret Room.jpg|The bridge of ''Shadow of Intent''.
File:Ark Secret Room3.jpg|An assault carrier's interior.
File:Ark Secret Room3.jpg|An assault carrier's interior.
File:Carrier Hanger.jpg|The supposed second hangar bay of an assault carrier.
File:Carrier Hanger.jpg|The supposed second hangar bay of an assault carrier.
File:MDT.png|Concept art of an assault carrier's fore and aft sections separated by Modular Dispersal Technology.
File:Carrier vs Cruiser.png|An overhead view of an assault carrier and two ''Ket''-pattern battlecruisers on ''[[Heretic]]''.
File:Covenant Pinch Fusion reactor.jpg|An assault carrier's [[pinch fusion reactor]].
File:Carrier vs Cruiser.png|An overhead view of an assault carrier and two CCS-class battlecruisers.
File:Heretic assault carrier.jpg|A carrier escorted by two battlecruisers.
File:Heretic assault carrier.jpg|A carrier escorted by two battlecruisers.
File:H4 Prologue CAS Carrier.jpg|A CAS-class carrier in the ''[[Halo 4]]'' [[Prologue]].
File:SOEIV Interface.png|''Solemn Penance'' over New Mombasa as seen from the [[Rookie]]'s [[M8900 drop pod|SOEIV]] in ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''.
File:Clarity of Faith.png|A forward view of ''[[Clarity of Faith]]'' in ''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''.
File:CapitalShips-scale.gif|Assault carrier scale.
File:H4 Prologue CAS Carrier.jpg|A ''CAS''-class carrier in the '''[[Halo 4]]''' ''[[Prologue]]''.
File:H2A Terminals - Unggoy on Balaho.jpg|A ''Kerel''-pattern assault carrier's [[gravity lift]] active on [[Balaho]] in [[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Halo 2: Anniversary's terminals]].
File:H2A Terminals - BattleofMeridian.jpg|A triad of ''Kerel''-pattern assault carriers fly in formation after the [[Battle of Meridian]]; leading them is the ''[[Solemn Penance]]''.
File:H2A Terminals - High Charity interior.jpg|A ''Kerel''-pattern assault carrier holds position above the great city of ''High Charity'' alongside several ''Ket''-pattern battlecruisers.  
</gallery>
</gallery>


==List of appearances==
==List of appearances==
{{Col-begin}}
{{Col-2}}
*''[[Halo 2]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo 2]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]'' {{Mo}}
Line 149: Line 198:
*''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
*''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
*''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''
*''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''
**''[[Palace Hotel (short story)|Palace Hotel]]'' {{Mo}}
**''[[Palace Hotel]]'' {{Mo}}
**''[[The Return]]''
**''[[The Return]]''
**''[[The Mona Lisa]]''
*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
**''[[Origins]]''
**''[[Origins]]''
**''[[The Package]]''
**''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''
*''[[Halo: Reach]]''
*''[[Halo: Reach]]''
*''[[Halo 4]]''
*''[[Halo 4]]''
**''[[Terminal/Halo 4|Terminals]]''
**''[[Terminal (Halo 4)|Terminals]]''
**''[[Spartan Ops]]''
**''[[Spartan Ops]]''
*''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''
*''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''
*''[[Halo: Initiation]]''
*''[[Halo: Initiation]]''
*''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
*''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
*''[[Halo 2 Anniversary]]''
{{Col-2}}
**''[[Terminal/Halo 2 Anniversary|Terminals]]
*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
**''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminals]]''
*''[[Halo: New Blood]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Hunt the Truth]]''
*''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''
*''[[Halo: Shadow of Intent]]''
*''[[Know Your Enemy]]''
*''[[Halo Mythos]]''
*''[[Halo: Silent Storm]]''
*''[[Halo: Lone Wolf]]''
*''[[Halo: Oblivion]]''
*''[[Halo: Shadows of Reach]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo Infinite]]''
{{Col-end}}


==Sources==
==Sources==
<references/>
{{Ref/Sources}}
 
{{Covenant Ships}}
 
{{CovenantShips}}
 
[[Category:Covenant Ship Classes]]

Latest revision as of 07:14, July 4, 2024

"CAS-class assault carrier" redirects here. For other ships of a similar classification, see Covenant assault carrier.
Kerel-pattern
H3 Assault Carrier render.png
Class attributes

Identification:

UNSC Three-letter code: CAS[1][2]

Operators:

General characteristics

Type:

Length:

5,347 meters (17,540 ft)[1][2][4][5][6][7]

Width:

2,118 meters (6,950 ft)[1][2][4][5][6][7]

Height:

746 meters (2,450 ft)[1][2][7]

Mass:

2.7 billion tonnes[8]

Power plant:

Pinch fusion reactor[8]

Maneuver drive:

3× Raphyus-pattern repulsor engines[8][9]

Slipspace drive:

Primus-pattern borer (CODEN Series VI equivalent)[8]

Crew:

Complement:

Troops:

40,000 warriors[8]

Hull:

Nanolaminate battleplate[9][10]

Shielding:

Energy shielding[9]

Armaments:

Air wing:

Air facilities:

8 hangar bays[9]

 

The Kerel-pattern assault carrier (UNSC three-letter classification: CAS-class assault carrier) is a design pattern variation of assault carrier employed by the naval forces of the Covenant.[8] The Kerel served the Covenant (and continues to serve its remnants) as a rarer configuration of the design, complementing the much more common Syfon-pattern assault carriers. This modification is explicitly approved by the Hierarchs.[8]

Overview[edit]

Design details[edit]

A cutaway of the carrier.

The Kerel-pattern carrier can be primarily distinguished from the more common Syfon-pattern by its distinctive smooth hull and rear cowling, replacing the city-like structures present on the dorsal surfaces of the Syfon design. Kerel-pattern vessels were rare Hierarch-approved variants of the Syfon. The basic silhouette of the ship is otherwise similar to most other Covenant carriers, with a hooked prow, immense hangar segment and a thick neck section connecting them.[8] The rear cowling is shared with another unidentified carrier design pattern. The armoured hull is composed of nanolaminate battleplate,[10] with energy shield emitters supporting it.[9] The Kerel has a length of 5,347 metres (17,540 ft), a beam of 2,118 metres (6,950 ft), and a height of 746 metres (2,450 ft).[4][8] This makes it one of the largest warship classes employed by the Covenant fleet during the Human-Covenant War. Although the carrier's keel length is inferior, its width and mass are more than twice as large as even the UNSC's prototype flagship UNSC Infinity, the largest vessel in human history.

The bridge of the Kerel is located in an armored command pod in the center of the carrier's neck,[8] situated inside an armoured pod protected by multiple redunant energy shield generator systems and inertial compensators to provide the command crew with the utmost protection from attack.[9] The blademaster's yard runs along the outermost sides of the neck, and is used to train the ship's warrior complement in martial arts. The aft of the ship houses an elaborate shrine to the Forerunners known as the Nave of the Creators, which is kept in perfect condition by the ship's crew.[8] The top section of the ship is capable of separating from the lower-aft half thanks to the application of Modular Dispersal Technology, which sees the ship constructed in a decentralised fashion as such as to ensure entire segments of the ship can be detached with a minimal loss of performance. When detached in this manner, the upper-front half of the ship retains its own repulsor engines and Borer for slipspace transportation. This feature is actually intended to be used in order to detach sections of the carrier that sustained extensive damage in order to increase the chances of saving what is left of the ship and its crew for future use.[12][11][4]

Propulsion[edit]

For propulsion, assault carriers rely on large deuterium-tritium pinch fusion reactors, housed in cavernous chambers,[13] which power the ship's vital systems. The reactor is located in the centre of the ship, inside the upper hull.[8] As such, and when split into multiple components when Modularly Dispersed, the reactor is retained in the upper hull - leaving the lower component completely without power.[12][11] as well as the three aft-mounted Raphyus-pattern repulsor engines that propel the ship, capable of operating in a vacuum or in an atmospheric environment. For superluminal travel, a Primus-pattern borer (equivalent to a CODEN Series IV Shaw-Fujikawa Translight Engine) is installed.[8]

The vessel is propelled by three massive engine units, and possess, like all Covenant vessels, the ability to make pinpoint slipspace jumps in atmosphere. As shown in the Battle of Earth, such slipspace jumps cause massive discharges of EMP, rivaling those set off by nuclear devices.[14]

Armaments[edit]

Not all assault carriers are created equally - while the Kerel's most common listed weapons configuration boasts an identical armament loadout to its more common Syfon counterpart, individual ships can nonetheless display a large variety in capabilities.[15][16] The configuration of weapons employed by the Kerel-pattern, Shadow of Intent, is listed as the following:

The ship's primary weapon is an Infernus-pattern excavation beam, the same model of excavation beam as that fitted on the much smaller Sinaris-pattern heavy destroyers.[8] This weapon is mounted on the vessel's prow, and is used for artifact excavation and military compliance operations.[9] Augmenting this weapon are an additional two Urpeon-pattern plasma lances for heavy anti-ship work.[8] The plasma lances are located on the dorsal surface of the ship, inside a teardrop-shaped emitter linked directly to the central pinch fusion reactor.[9][13]

The class is additionally fitted with eight Luxor-pattern heavy plasma beam emitters and twenty-four Mictix-pattern heavy plasma torpedo silos, alongside an array of 700 Ferriel-pattern pulse laser turrets.[8] Seven plasma cannons line the horizontal trench running across the ship's prow. These weapons can be fired individually or combined to fire their energy in one devastating mass - though require the ship's shields to be disabled to fire.[17] The plasma cannons are likely the Luxor plasma beams or, more likely, the Mictix plasma torpedo silos, based on their usage during the Ambush at Duraan.[17]

Crew and complement[edit]

A carrier discharging its assault aircraft over a human city.

Kerel-pattern carriers are capable of operation with a crew of as few as two hundred Superiors - even in dire circumstances such as those faced by the Swords of Sanghelios during the Blooding Years.[8][17] The hooked prow's endmost section contains living and entertainment quarters for the ship's permanent crew. Recreational facilities include habitat domes and hunting preserves, similar in nature to those of the Mjern-pattern agricultural support ship.[9]

When under ideal operating circumstances, a carrier can boast a troop complement of 40,000 warriors, with facilities such as the blademaster's yard for on-board training and recreation. Supplementing the troop complement is an armada of ground vehicles including three Scarab quadruped excavators, 196 Wraith tanks and 700 Ghost scout bikes. 44 Shadow troop transports are additionally embarked aboard the carrier for groundside troop movement.[8]

Alongside the ground complement, Kerel-pattern carriers house a massive air wing of both atmospheric and exoatmospheric strikecraft. Eight hangar bays line the sides of the ship's lower section, flanking the gravity lift. These hangars have an additional large forward entrance,[9] and their cavernous nature is such that they are capable of housing whole smaller warships such as UNSC frigates.[18] The ship's air and deployment wing includes 250 drop pods, 20 R'sisho-pattern Ticks and 44 Spirit or Phantom dropships for transport - for use when the massive gravity lift on the ship is unavailable. Escorting these troop transports are 600 Banshee ground attack flyers, alongside 192 of their Elsedda-pattern "space Banshee" cousins for exoatmospheric intercept. 64 Seraph fighters supplement this number for heavier intercept and limited anti-ship capability.[8]

In addition to their combat complements, carriers also stock a number of Ren transport shuttles for logistics and personnel transportation.[11]

Usage[edit]

In the starship classification system, the Kerel-pattern is considered a part of the examiner category of vessels.[3]

Within the hull classifications of Covenant ships undertaken by the Office of Naval Intelligence, the Kerel is one of two warships designated the CAS-class assault carrier - alongside its more common cousin the Syfon-pattern.[4] The "S", for Salvation, denotes that the CAS-class assault carrier is a dedicated warship.[19] Along with the Covenant's other assault carriers and supercarriers, the Kerel-pattern assault carrier was designated a Class-Five flagship carrier by the United Nations Space Command due to their use as a flagship of Covenant fleets.[20]

Kerel-pattern ships are considered effective when used in fleet command and offensive space warfare roles. This puts them in contrast with the Ruma-pattern light carrier and Sh'wada-pattern supercarrier, which are both considered more useful in force deployment roles than in combat.They generally serve as the primary flagship of most fleets, working as the fleet command centre and the seat of the armada's fleetmaster or Supreme Commander.[4]

Ships of the line[edit]

Operational history[edit]

The massive launch bay of the assault carrier.

The Kerel-pattern assault carrier had entered service at least by circa 2135.[8]

During the deep and bloody siege of Earth that was still continuing, numerous assault carriers were assigned within multiple Covenant reinforcement fleets to complete the destruction of humanity's last and most important and defended stronghold.[21] Near the end of the Battle of Mombasa, at least three assault carriers that were part of a large Jiralhanae excavation fleet sent by the Prophet of Truth joined the remaining battlecruisers of the Fleet of Sacred Consecration in finishing the glassing of Mombasa and excavating the Portal at Voi.[22] One, having exited slipspace nearby to begin glassing operations, nearly killed Alpha-Nine as they escaped in a hijacked Phantom.[22] Near the end of the Battle for Earth, at least a few of survived carriers retreated with Truth's ship and his fleet through the portal to the Ark.[23]

The assault carrier Shadow of Intent later became the flagship of the Fleet of Retribution, which also includes another assault carrier.[24] The Special Operations Commander and Fleetmaster Rtas 'Vadum, in command of the ship, led his fleet to Earth in pursuit of a surviving Flood ship, arriving in time to glass the infected area of the planet.[25] Shadow of Intent and its escorting cruisers joined the remnants of the UNSC Home Fleet's Seventh Fleet to launch a joint attack on the Covenant at Installation 00, destroying their fleet and providing a distraction while ground forces engaged Truth's loyalists that had landed on the installation.[26][18] It later evacuated the UNSC and Sangheili personnel and returned to Earth for a short time before returning to Sanghelios.[27] The Shadow of Intent later became embroiled in a conflict with Tem'Bhetek's faction which was seeking revenge against the Sangheili. After defeating the faction, Rtas decided to seek out the surviving San'Shyuum.[28][9][8]

By 2554, Jul 'Mdama, a shipmaster and Supreme Commander of his self-proclaimed Covenant commanded the assault carrier Song of Retribution during his attempts to enter the Forerunner shield world Requiem.[7] Three years later, the Song of Retribution led a fleet of numerous Zanar-pattern light cruisers.[29] After rebelling against Jul, Sali 'Nyon stole away the assault carrier Breath of Annihilation from him.[30]

Numerous assault carriers were present at the peace talks on Ealen IV under the command of the Arbiter, Thel 'Vadam, and the Elder Jiralhanae Chieftain, Lydus. Many assault carriers were also used under the command of Vata 'Gajat during the battle that ensued in an attempt to capture the delegates.[31]

Operators[edit]

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Kerel-pattern carriers were employed by the various ministries of the Covenant, during the empire's reign. Following the empire's dissolution, Kerel-pattern carriers fell into the hands of the imperial remnant warlords.

Covenant[edit]

Covenant remnants[edit]

Production notes[edit]

Kerel-pattern assault carriers were first introduced into the series as the assault carrier design featured in Halo 2 and Halo 3 - then-known by the name of the CAS-class assault carrier. The design remained relatively consistent until the release of the Halo 2: Anniversary in 2014, with the Blur Studio cutscenes depicting Solemn Penance differently. The two designs were later canonised in 2017's Halo: Warfleet – An Illustrated Guide to the Spacecraft of Halo as two individual design patterns of Covenant carrier that serve alongside one another in the Covenant fleet.

Gallery[edit]

Concept art[edit]

  • Concept art for High Charity in Halo 2, which would later become the carrier design.

    Concept art for High Charity in Halo 2, which would later become the carrier design.

  • An early storyboard depicting an assault carrier engaging UNSC In Amber Clad in Halo 2.

    An early storyboard depicting an assault carrier engaging UNSC In Amber Clad in Halo 2.

  • Concept art for Halo: Legends: The Package of an assault carrier's fore and aft sections separated by Modular Dispersal Technology.

    Concept art for Halo: Legends: The Package of an assault carrier's fore and aft sections separated by Modular Dispersal Technology.

  • The Package concept art for a CAS' interior corridors.

    The Package concept art for a CAS' interior corridors.

  • The Package concept art for a chamber on the CAS' interior.

    The Package concept art for a chamber on the CAS' interior.

Screenshots[edit]

  • A render of a CAS-class assault carrier from Halo 2.

    A render of a CAS-class assault carrier from Halo 2.

  • The Solemn Penance hangs ominously in the clouds over New Mombasa in Halo 2.

    The Solemn Penance hangs ominously in the clouds over New Mombasa in Halo 2.

  • An assault carrier's pinch fusion reactor in Halo 2.

    An assault carrier's pinch fusion reactor in Halo 2.

  • An assault carrier firing its dorsal energy projector at John-117 during the Battle for Earth.

    An assault carrier firing its dorsal energy projector at John-117 during the Battle for Earth.

  • Numerous assault carriers around portal to the Ark in the Halo 3 announcement trailer.

    Numerous assault carriers around portal to the Ark in the Halo 3 announcement trailer.

  • An assault carrier being accompanied by several Ket-pattern battlecruisers.

    An assault carrier being accompanied by several Ket-pattern battlecruisers.

  • A CAS-class assault carrier compared to a Ket-pattern battlecruiser in Halo 3.

    A CAS-class assault carrier compared to a Ket-pattern battlecruiser in Halo 3.

  • An overview of the Kerel pattern Assault Carrier.

    An overview of the Kerel pattern Assault Carrier.

  • A forward view of Shadow of Intent.

    A forward view of Shadow of Intent.

  • A UNSC frigate flying under an assault carrier. Note the size of the carrier's hangar.

    A UNSC frigate flying under an assault carrier. Note the size of the carrier's hangar.

  • The interior of an assault carrier's hanger bay. Note the UNSC frigate and dropships of both Covenant and human design in dock.

    The interior of an assault carrier's hanger bay. Note the UNSC frigate and dropships of both Covenant and human design in dock.

  • A side view of the assault carrier Shadow of Intent. Note that there is a second hangar above the engines at the stern of the ship.

    A side view of the assault carrier Shadow of Intent. Note that there is a second hangar above the engines at the stern of the ship.

  • A top-down view of the assault carrier Shadow of Intent. Note that there is a second hangar above the engines at the stern of the ship.

    A top-down view of the assault carrier Shadow of Intent. Note that there is a second hangar above the engines at the stern of the ship.

  • A full view of the carrier's underside.

    A full view of the carrier's underside.

  • The bridge of Shadow of Intent.

    The bridge of Shadow of Intent.

  • An assault carrier's interior.

    An assault carrier's interior.

  • The supposed second hangar bay of an assault carrier.

    The supposed second hangar bay of an assault carrier.

  • An overhead view of an assault carrier and two Ket-pattern battlecruisers on Heretic.

    An overhead view of an assault carrier and two Ket-pattern battlecruisers on Heretic.

  • A carrier escorted by two battlecruisers.

    A carrier escorted by two battlecruisers.

  • Solemn Penance over New Mombasa as seen from the Rookie's SOEIV in Halo 3: ODST.

    Solemn Penance over New Mombasa as seen from the Rookie's SOEIV in Halo 3: ODST.

  • A forward view of Clarity of Faith in Halo: Blood Line.

    A forward view of Clarity of Faith in Halo: Blood Line.

  • Assault carrier scale.

    Assault carrier scale.

  • A CAS-class carrier in the Halo 4 Prologue.

    A CAS-class carrier in the Halo 4 Prologue.

  • A Kerel-pattern assault carrier's gravity lift active on Balaho in Halo 2: Anniversary's terminals.

    A Kerel-pattern assault carrier's gravity lift active on Balaho in Halo 2: Anniversary's terminals.

  • A triad of Kerel-pattern assault carriers fly in formation after the Battle of Meridian; leading them is the Solemn Penance.

    A triad of Kerel-pattern assault carriers fly in formation after the Battle of Meridian; leading them is the Solemn Penance.

  • A Kerel-pattern assault carrier holds position above the great city of High Charity alongside several Ket-pattern battlecruisers.

    A Kerel-pattern assault carrier holds position above the great city of High Charity alongside several Ket-pattern battlecruisers.

List of appearances[edit]

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d Halo Waypoint, Shadow of Intent (Retrieved on May 11, 2021) [archive]
  2. ^ a b c d Halo Waypoint, Song of Retribution (Retrieved on Jan 26, 2021) [archive]
  3. ^ a b c Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 262
  4. ^ a b c d e f Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 28
  5. ^ a b Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition), page 264
  6. ^ a b Halo Encyclopedia (2011 edition), page 276
  7. ^ a b c d Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 195
  8. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af ag ah ai aj ak al Halo: Warfleet, page 70-71
  9. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k Halo Mythos, page 151-152: While these pages visually depict a Syfon-pattern carrier, the information itself describes Shadow of Intent - canonically a Kerel-pattern vessel
  10. ^ a b Halo Waypoint Forums, Catalog Interaction: "[frumentarii] threat dynamic analysis noted significant improvement in the vessels [dynamic capabilities] and alterations to [nanolaminate] hull plating" (Retrieved on Oct 13, 2014) [local archive] [external archive]
  11. ^ a b c d Halo Legends - The Package (animated short)
  12. ^ a b Halo Waypoint, Modular Dispersal Technology (Retrieved on Mar 14, 2011) [local archive] [external archive]
  13. ^ a b Halo 2, campaign level Cairo Station
  14. ^ Halo 3: ODST, campaign level Prepare to Drop
  15. ^ Twitter, Halo (@Halo): "And Jul's ship is certainly a powerful example of Covenant/former-Covenant Assault Carriers but there's quite a..." (Retrieved on Jan 23, 2023) [archive]
  16. ^ Twitter, Halo (@Halo): "bit of variety in that ship class. Not all Assault Carriers are created equally." (Retrieved on Jan 23, 2023) [archive]
  17. ^ a b c Halo: Shadow of Intent
  18. ^ a b Halo 3, campaign level The Ark
  19. ^ Halo Waypoint, Canon Fodder - Have S'moa (Retrieved on Oct 30, 2021) [archive]
  20. ^ Data Drop 4
  21. ^ Halo: Uprising, issue 4
  22. ^ a b Halo 3: ODST, campaign level Coastal Highway
  23. ^ Halo 3, campaign level The Storm
  24. ^ Halo 3, campaign level Heretic
  25. ^ Halo 3, campaign level Floodgate
  26. ^ Halo 3, campaign level The Covenant
  27. ^ Halo 3, campaign level Halo
  28. ^ Halo: Shadow of Intent
  29. ^ Halo 4, Terminal 1
  30. ^ a b Halo: Escalation, issue The Absolute Record
  31. ^ a b c d Halo: Escalation, issue 1
  32. ^ Halo: Spartan Assault, campaign level Operation A: Umbra

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Ship classifications of the Covenant and its remnants
Light warships
Jiralhanae ships
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