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{{Era|HCW|Post}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Weapon Infobox
{{Weapon infobox
|name=M6 G/GNR "Spartan Laser"
|name = W/AV M6 G/GNR "Spartan Laser"
|image=[[File:H4-SpartanLaser.png|350px]]
|image = {{tabcontainer|title1=M6/E|content1=[[File:H5G-M6SpartanLaser.png|350px]]|title2=M6/R|content2=[[File:H3-M6SpartanLaser.png|350px]]|title3=M6/V|content3=[[File:HReach-M6SpartanLaser.png|350px]]|title4=M6/X|content4=[[File:H4-SpartanLaser.png|350px]]}}
|manufacturer=[[Misriah Armory]]<ref>'''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 183''</ref>
|manufacturer = [[Misriah Armory]]{{Ref/Book|Id=enc22|Enc22|Page=179}}
|series=M6
|series = M6
|type=[[Directed-energy weapon]]
|type = [[Directed-energy weapon]]{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
|cost=218,000 [[Credit|cR]]<ref name=Bungie>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BAGSpartanLaser '''Bungie.net''': ''Spartan Laser'']</ref>
|cost = 218,000 [[Credit|cR]]{{Ref/Site|Id=prereleasebnet|URL=http://www.bungie.net/News/TopStory.aspx?link=charginmalasers|Site=Bungie.net|Page=Spartan Laser|D=2|M=2|Y=2007|LocalArchive=Machines, Materiel and Munitions from the Human-Covenant Conflict, 2525 - Present#Weapon/Anti-Vehicle Model 6 Grindell/Galileian Nonlinear Rifle}}{{Ref/Site|Id=bnet|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BAGSpartanLaser|Site=Bungie.net|Page=Spartan Laser|D=11|M=9|Y=2013|LocalArchive=Machines, Materiel and Munitions from the Human-Covenant Conflict, 2525 - Present#Weapon/Anti-Vehicle Model 6 Grindell/Galileian Nonlinear Rifle}}
|variant=*Sparrowhawk-mounted version
|variant =  
*Pelican-mounted M8C G/GNC
* [[M6/E Spartan Laser]]
|service=[[Human-Covenant War]] <br> [[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
* [[M6/R Spartan Laser]]
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
* [[M6/V Spartan Laser]]
|weight=*Empty: {{Convert|19.07|kg|lb}}<ref name=Bungie/>
* [[M6/X Spartan Laser]]
*Loaded: {{Convert|20.4|kg|lb}}<ref name=Bungie/>
*[[M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon]]
|length={{Convert|38.9|in|cm}}<ref name=Bungie/> - {{Convert|47|in|cm}}<ref name="H4VG">'''Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide''', ''page 69''</ref>
*[[M8C Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon]]
|width={{Convert|7.7|in|cm}}<ref name="H4VG"/>
|service =
|height={{Convert|15.4|in|cm}}<ref name="H4VG"/>
*[[Human-Covenant War]]{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
|ammotype=[[BA-53635/PLMD]] battery unit <br>
*[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
[[Series 6971 battery cell]] (later versions)
|affiliation = [[United Nations Space Command]]{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
|feed=100 battery units (4 shots)
|weight =  
|operation=Directed energy
*'''Empty''': {{Convert|19.07|kg|lb}}{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}}<br/>
|rate=Very slow
*'''Loaded''': {{Convert|20.4|kg|lb}}{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}}
|velocity=299,792,458 m/s (983,571,056 ft/s)<ref name=Bungie/>
|length = {{Convert|98.8|cm|in}}{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}} - {{Convert|121.1|cm|in}}{{Ref/Book|Id=evg|EVG|Page=183}}
|range=Long
|width = {{Convert|7.7|in|cm}} {{C|M6/X}}{{Ref/Book|Id=h4evg|H4EVG|Page=69}}
|height = {{Convert|15.4|in|cm}} {{C|M6/X}}{{Ref/Reuse|h4evg}}
|ammotype = *[[BA-53635/PLMD]] battery unit {{C|M6/R}}{{Ref/Reuse|prereleasebnet}}
*[[Series 6971 battery cell]] {{C|M6/X}}{{Ref/Reuse|h4evg}}
|capacity =
|feed = 100 battery units (4 to 5 shots){{Ref/Site|Id=waypoint|D=01|M=6|Y=2020|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/spartan-laser|Site=Halo Waypoint|Section=Universe|Page=Spartan Laser}}
|operation = [[Directed-energy weapon|Directed-energy]]{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
|rate = Semi-automatic{{Ref/Reuse|evg}}
|velocity = 299,792,458 m/s (983,571,056 ft/s){{Ref/Reuse|evg}}
|optics =
|range = Long{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
}}
}}
The '''Weapon/Anti-Vehicle Model 6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Rifle''' ('''W/AV M6 G/GNR'''), colloquially known as the '''Spartan Laser''', is a man-portable and vehicle-mounted solid-state [[directed-energy weapon|directed-energy]] anti-vehicle weapon used by the [[United Nations Space Command]].{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}{{Ref/Book|Id=enc09|Enc09|Page=315}} It is the only known infantry directed-energy weapon manufactured by [[human]]s, aside from the [[Plasma rifle (Chalybs)|plasma rifle protoype]] created by [[Chalybs Defense Solutions]].


The '''Weapon/Anti-Vehicle Model 6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Rifle''' ('''M6 G/GNR'''), colloquially known as the '''Spartan Laser''', is a man-portable and vehicle-mounted solid-state<ref name="universe"/> [[directed-energy weapon|directed-energy]] anti-vehicle weapon used by the [[United Nations Space Command]].<ref name=Bungie/><ref>'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''page 315''</ref> It is one of the few directed energy weapons fielded by UNSC forces, aside from the [[XEV9-Matos Nonlinear Pulse Cannon|pulse laser]]s used by [[Office of Naval Intelligence]] [[UNSC prowler|prowler]]s and the [[X23 NNEMP Cannon]] used by [[Gremlin Combat Support Vehicle]]s.
==Overview==
===Design details===
The M6 G/GNR was originally created in concert with the [[GUNGNIR]] [[Mjolnir]] armor variant as part of [[Project GUNGNIR]], a program designed to provide supplementary matériel for the [[SPARTAN-II program]], hence the "Spartan Laser" moniker.{{Ref/Site|D=14|M=03|Y=2011|URL=http://halo.xbox.com/en-us/intel/theuniverse/tech/video/the-mjolnir-project-2/46e89c1a-f619-41e2-ad7f-ab65c61ca2df|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=MJOLNIR 2|LocalArchive=The MJOLNIR Project}} The M6 G/GNR is a man-portable, shoulder-fired, directed energy weapon firing a [[wikipedia:Solid-state laser|solid-state laser]].{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}} The Spartan Laser's Grindell/Galilean architecture incorporates a [[Smart-linking|smart-linked]] [[Wyrd optics suite|Wyrd III optics suite]], capable of 3× magnification for increased accuracy.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}{{Ref/Reuse|prereleasebnet}} Its reticule, whether on 1× or 3× magnifications, features a meter on the right side showing the charging status of the laser. The tick mark rests at the bottom of the circular shaped reticule while the laser is dormant, and gradually travels along the reticule's circumference until it reaches the point of origin, indicating that the laser is currently discharging.{{Ref/Game|H3|Gameplay}} Certain variants of the M6, the M6/V and the M6/X, are equipped with foldable targeting displays, allowing operators to target enemies without the use of smart-linking on their [[heads-up display]].{{Ref/Game|HR|Gameplay}}{{Ref/Reuse|h4evg}}


==Background==
The M6 has gone through several iterations, but its changes have been mostly cosmetic.{{Ref/Reuse|evg}} For example, the M6/R variant used during the [[Human-Covenant War]] is powered by a [[BA-53635/PLMD]] non-removable battery, which recharges with a [[PP-16979/AM-Sh]] charger,{{Ref/Reuse|prereleasebnet}} whereas the M6/X variant is powered by [[Series 6971 battery cell]]s,{{Ref/Reuse|h4evg}} with little-to-no changes in performance.{{Ref/Game|H4|Gameplay}} Although the Spartan Laser was considered to be "ruinously expensive" at the time of its introduction, later refinements led to a reduction in production cost which is now only considered to be "extraordinarily expensive". Internal components have changed over time, incorporating incremental advances that have lowered production costs, and increased efficiency, but the significant advances in crystal doping and optoelectronic focusing remain largely opaque to end users.{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}}
[[File:Spartanlaser.png|thumb|left|The Spartan Laser's blueprint from ''Halo Reach'']]
The M6 G/GNR was originally created in concert with the [[GUNGNIR]] [[Mjolnir]] armor variant as part of [[Project GUNGNIR]], a program designed to provide supplementary matériel for the [[SPARTAN-II program]], hence the "Spartan Laser" moniker.<ref>[http://halo.xbox.com/en-us#/intel/featured/video/the-mjolnir-project-2/46e89c1a-f619-41e2-ad7f-ab65c61ca2df '''Halo Waypoint:''' ''MJOLNIR 2'']</ref><ref>'''[[Halo: Reach]]''', GUNGNIR Armory description''</ref> The M6 G/GNR is a man-portable, shoulder-fired, directed energy weapon used by the UNSC. When the trigger is pulled, a red targeting laser is painted on-target accompanied by an audible whine as the weapon cycles up. The Spartan Laser will then charge for approximately three seconds before discharging the main laser. As the Spartan Laser charges, the charging tone gets noticeably louder and increases in pitch up until the laser is fired. The firing sequence can be aborted without discharging the battery as long as the weapon is not actually fired; for example, if the target moves out of sight or the operator needs to displace. The laser is a powerful microsecond-long pulse of energy capable of burning through thick plates of metallic laminates, nanocomposites, or hardened steel. The casing holds a high-capacity battery cell that feeds into a pulsed-power array and crystal slabs that produce the weapon’s devastating beam.<ref name="universe"/> Heat management forces significant downtime between shots, and so the weapon enters an approximately two-second-long standby sequence between shots.<ref>[http://halo3.com halo3.com]</ref> The Spartan Laser has a small blast radius, injuring targets within two meters of the point of impact and toppling light vehicles.


The Spartan Laser is the most expensive small arm known to be produced by the UNSC. It costs 218,000.00 [[Credit|cR]], more than the cost of four fully armed [[M12 Warthog]]s, 134 [[MA5B assault rifle]]s, or over 7,266 [[M9 fragmentation grenade]]s. Although the Spartan Laser was considered to be "ruinously expensive" at the time of its introduction, later refinements led to a reduction in production cost which is now only considered to be "extraordinarily expensive". During the [[Human-Covenant War]], only [[Orbital Drop Shock Trooper]]s and Spartans were given ready access to the weapon.<ref name="universe">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/spartan-laser '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Spartan Laser'']</ref>
===Operation===
[[File:The Covenant SL.jpg|thumb|left|200px|[[John-117]] firing an M6/R during the [[Battle of Installation 00]].]]
When the weapon is equipped, a shroud over the laser diode lifts up to expose it, presumably to protect it from scratches and battle damage when holstered.{{Ref/Note|In gameplay, the weapon is shown with the shroud up when it is on a person's back. This is likely due to reuse of the third-person viewmodel of the laser, which does not have the shroud covering the laser emitter.}} A small hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder on the left side of the shroud actuates the shroud where it is anchored to the chassis of the weapon. When the trigger is pulled, a red targeting laser is painted on-target accompanied by an audible whine as the weapon cycles up. The Spartan Laser will then charge for approximately three seconds before discharging the main laser. As the Spartan Laser charges, the charging tone gets noticeably louder and increases in pitch up until the laser is fired. The firing sequence can be aborted without discharging the battery as long as the weapon is not actually fired; for example, if the target moves out of sight or the operator needs to displace. Heat management forces significant downtime between shots, and so the weapon enters an approximately two-second-long standby sequence between shots.
 
When fired, the Spartan Laser emits a solid-state laser, a powerful microsecond-long pulse of energy capable of burning through thick plates of metallic laminates, nanocomposites, or hardened steel.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}} The beam can also penetrate multiple obstacles and/or targets, provided they are aligned along a linear trajectory. The beam emitted by the M6 Spartan Laser weapons is typically a bright red. The beam is capable of eliminating all manner of targets in a very large range. When used against infantry such as [[Jiralhanae Chieftain]]s, the lasers is capable of efficiently burning through the armor and leaving a clean hole through the target and also severely damage anything behind the initial target. A single discharge from the M6/R is capable of piercing the thick armor of a {{Pattern|Ru'swum|Phantom}}.{{Ref/Reuse|prereleasebnet}}
 
===Usage===
While there are multiple M6 variants to facilitate various specialized roles,{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}} the M6 is typically used in both anti-vehicle and anti-personnel roles.{{Ref/Reuse|prereleasebnet}} When employed in combat, the Spartan Laser had a marked effect on both allied and enemy morale.{{Ref/Reuse|prereleasebnet}} During the [[Human-Covenant War]], only [[Orbital Drop Shock Trooper]]s and Spartans were given ready access to the weapon.{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}}


==Variants==
==Variants==
[[File:H4-Shutdown-PelicanGunship-HUD.jpg|left|200px|thumb|A G79H-TC Pelican using its M8C G/GNC.]]
There are four known variants of the M6 Spartan Lasers:
===Sparrowhawk's M6===
* '''[[M6/E Spartan Laser]]''': The M6/E ("Enhanced") variant is upgraded to combat heavy armor,{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}} and functions primarily as an anti-tank ordnance.{{Ref/Site|Id=lockeandloaded|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/community/blog-posts/canon-fodder-locke-load|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Cannon Fodder: Locke & Load|D=13|M=4|Y=2016}} Its parts were miniaturized components derived from the [[M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon]] mounted on [[AV-22 Sparrowhawk]]s.{{Ref/Site|Id=localunits|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-local-units|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Cannon Fodder: Local Units|D=31|M=3|Y=2017}}
The [[AV-22 Sparrowhawk]] is equipped with a nose-mounted M6 G/GNR in addition to its [[GUA-23/AW/Linkless Feed Autocannon|twin-linked autocannons]].<ref name="Anders">'''[[Halo Wars: Limited Edition]]''', ''[[:File:Anders 0002.jpg|Professor Anders' leader card]]''</ref> This version of the Spartan Laser has similar firing and recharge rates to the man-portable version, though it has higher damage potential and a faster charge up. Unlike the standard Spartan Laser, however, the version mounted on the AV-22 fires a bluish-white beam, which may suggest higher intensity; this is likely, as the Sparrowhawk can certainly carry a more powerful battery than the BA-53635/PLMD used by the standard version. Some of the components that were on the Sparrowhawk' Spartan Laser were later miniaturized and installed on infantry-portable M6/E variants after the Covenant War.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/community/blog-posts/canon-fodder-locke-load '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Cannon Fodder: Locke & Load'']</ref>
** '''[[Endgame]]''': ''Endgame'' is an improved model of the M6/E variant with a doubled battery capacity and reduced charge time. It has the downside of having less strength than its normal counterpart.
 
** '''[[Selene's Lance]]''': ''Selene's Lance'' is an advanced variant of the M6/E variant has a faster charge time and a longer beam duration, with 50% additional battery capacity compared to its normal counterpart.
===M6/E===
* '''[[M6/R Spartan Laser]]''': The M6/R variant is specialized in reconnaissance deployments and scouting maneuvers.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
[[File:H5G-M6E.png|right|200px|thumb|The M6/E Spartan Laser]]
* '''[[M6/V Spartan Laser]]''': The M6/V variant is designed with a larger focus on operator safety via a versatile focus canopy.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
The E ("Enhanced") model M6 high-energy laser is just as capable as earlier examples, but is an order of magnitude cheaper to manufacture. Primarily used as an anti-tank laser, the M6/E fires a devastating energy pulse after a short warmup time.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/community/blog-posts/canon-fodder-locke-load '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Cannon Fodder: Locke & Load'']</ref>
* '''[[M6/X Spartan Laser]]''': The M6/X variant is powered by [[Series 6971 battery cell]]s and featured an experimental alternating power distributor.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}


====M6/E variants====
<gallery class=center>
*'''Endgame''': Endgame is an improved model of the M6/E variant with more battery capacity and reduced charge time. It has the downside of having less power.
File:H5G-M6SpartanLaser.png|The [[M6/E Spartan Laser]].
*'''Selene's Lance''': This variant of the M6E model is built using new components from the labs in Seongnam. It has a faster charge time, and a longer beam duration, with additional battery capacity. The targeting laser is also harmful. In [[War Games]] simulations balancing adds extra recoil to Selene's Lance.
File:H3-M6SpartanLaser.png|The [[M6/R Spartan Laser]]
<gallery>
File:HReach-M6SpartanLaser.png|The [[M6/V Spartan Laser]].
File:Halo 5 Spartan Laser Endgame.png|Endgame
File:H4-SpartanLaser.png|The [[M6/X Spartan Laser]].
File:H5G M6E SE.png|Selene's Lance
</gallery>
</gallery>


===M8C G/GNC===
In addition, related technology has been observed on vehicle armaments:
The '''M8C Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon'''<ref>'''[[Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 113''</ref> is a nose-mounted variant that is equipped on the [[G79H-TC Pelican]] gunship. It functions similarly to its infantry-carried counterpart, but on a much larger scale. Due to the increase in size, its damage output is increased as well, allowing it to obliterate large vehicles such a Phantom with only a few direct hits. The M8C also has an effectively unlimited supply of ammunition as it draws power from the gunship it is mounted on rather than a battery.
* '''[[M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon|W/AV M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon]]''': An upgraded variant mounted on the chin of [[AV-22 Sparrowhawk|AV-22]] and [[AV-22B Sparrowhawk]]s.{{Ref/Game|Id=HWLE|HW|[[Halo Wars Limited Edition|Limited Edition]]|Detail=[[Personnel profile]] - [[:File:HWLE Anders Profile Back.jpg|Professor Anders]]}}{{Ref/Book|EVG|Page=182}} This variant has similar firing and recharge rates to the man-portable version, though it has higher damage potential and a faster charge up. Some of the components that were on the Sparrowhawk' Spartan Laser were later miniaturized and installed on infantry-portable M6/E variants after the Covenant War.{{Ref/Reuse|localunits}}
{{Clear}}
* '''[[M8C Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon]]''': A variant mounted on the [[G79H-TC Pelican]].{{Ref/Book|H4EVG|Page=113}}
 
* '''[[M11B nonlinear cannon]]''': A variant mounted on [[S-930 Pegasus]] prototypes.{{Ref/Site|Id=digsite|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/canon-fodder-digsite-dissection|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Cannon Fodder - Digsite Dissection|D=28|M=7|Y=2023}}
==Operation==
* '''Unidentified variants''': A variant of [[pulse laser turret]]s on the [[G81 Condor]] appear to be derived from similar technology, alongside the high-energy lasers employed on the [[Command Mantis]] variant.
====Targeting====
When the weapon is equipped, a shroud over the emitting lens of the laser lifts up to expose it, presumably to protect it from scratches and battle damage when holstered, although the weapon is shown with the shroud up when it is on a person's back. This was probably an overlooked graphics flaw in the games, though. The shroud can be seen releasing from its protective state when the weapon is drawn in first person view. A small hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder on the left side of the shroud actuates the shroud where it is anchored to the chassis of the weapon. When the trigger is pulled, a harmless red laser sight is projected on the target and a unique targeting tone is emitted which slowly becomes louder. The Spartan Laser will then charge for four seconds<ref name="1up">http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?cId=3155479</ref> before firing a red laser beam that usually destroys the target. In the ''Halo 3'' beta, if the reticule was moved while firing, a scattering of beams would be released, spreading over the targeted area. For the few frames while the laser is fired, the right targeting stick is disabled. The beam can be strafed, however, over a larger area if the player is moving while the laser is firing.
 
The Spartan Laser is equipped with a smart-linked [[Wyrd III|Wyrd III optics suite]] for increased accuracy and is capable of 3x magnification. Its reticule, whether on 1x or 3x magnifications, features a meter on the right side showing the charging status of the laser. The tick mark rests at the bottom of the circular shaped reticule while the laser is dormant, and gradually travels along the reticule's circumference until it reaches the point of origin, indicating that the laser is currently discharging.
 
====Laser beam====
[[File:Spartan laser many beams.jpg|The Laser beam is devastating to infantry at any range.|thumb|300px|right]]
Contrary to popular belief, the Spartan Laser is not a one-hit, one-kill weapon. In gameplay, damage is inflicted on a target by means of multiple, precision strikes from the laser. Instead of what appears to be one intense, uninterrupted beam of energy, the laser is actually multiple, but smaller, charges of energy, sent downrange in rapid succession, giving the appearance of a continuous beam. As the laser is light, there is little chance for escape or evasion before imminent doom. However, it is possible to avoid complete annihilation by traveling at high speeds or quickly finding some cover, thus avoiding the rest of the devastating beam, which allows for targets to be "clipped" but survive. Once the main laser is discharged downrange, the target receives the intense increase in energy as thermal energy, which then proceeds to impart physical changes upon the target. With each passing millisecond the target is hit by the main laser, the energy levels rise until they become intolerable and result in combustion, in the case of vehicles, or death.
 
Under normal circumstances, as long as a direct impact is delivered, one laser shot will destroy any target. Wraiths cannot simply be fired upon at any location; each has a vulnerable point that must be hit in order to achieve a catastrophic kill with one shot. The Wraith must be fired upon from the vehicle's rear, right below the mortar at its power core, or directly aimed at the cockpit. The Scorpion must be hit in the driver's canopy to kill him or her instantly, though to destroy the tank you must aim for the exhaust vent. It is powerful enough to make its way through nine Warthogs parked bumper to bumper. It is also highly effective at destroying [[Type-47 Ultra Heavy Assault Platform|Scarabs']] leg joints, although ''The Covenant'' is the only mission where this can be done, and it is unlikely the player will keep the Spartan Laser that long into the level without completely draining its battery.
 
The intense energy of the beam imparts splash damage up to a range of approximately two meters from the impact point. A careless operator that discharges the laser while too close to any obstacle will instantly be killed. The beam can also penetrate multiple obstacles and/or targets, provided they are aligned along a linear trajectory.
 
It is powered by a [[BA-53635/PLMD]] non-replaceable battery, which is recharged with a [[PP-16979/AM-Sh]] charger. UNSC logistics, however, are not sufficient for the charger to accompany many M6 G/GNR units in the field.
 
The version of the M6 G/GNR mounted on the AV-22 Sparrowhawk fires a bluish-white beam. The color of the beam suggests that it is fired at a higher intensity than the man-portable version, which is likely, as the mounted version has greater firepower due to the connection to the Sparrowhawk's main power supply.


==Gameplay==
==Gameplay==
{{Quote|It's not overpowered. It's an elegant weapon from a more civilized age.|[[Luke Smith]]}}
{{Main|Spartan Laser}}
 
Variants of the M6 Spartan Laser are featured as a usable weapon in ''[[Halo 3]]'', ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'', ''[[Halo: Reach]]'', ''[[Halo 4]]'', and ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''. They are known as the [[Spartan Laser]]. It is a [[power weapon]], which fires a powerful laser that deals an incredible amount of damage, destroying all vehicles with a single well-placed shot. The Spartan Laser is one of the most powerful weapons in the game, and to compensate, it has a limited use of five shots, a short cooldown after a discharge, and inability to pick up ammo.
===Advantages===
[[File:laserdblkill.jpg|thumb|right|A player using the Spartan Laser to kill two opponents at once.]]
The Spartan Laser, commonly known in player lexicon as the '''Splaser''', is the most powerful small arm in ''Halo 3'', ''Halo 3: ODST'', and ''Halo: Reach'', combining long range with lethal force. Most destructible vehicles are often destroyed in a single blast, except in the case of a near miss, in which case the target will still suffer heavy damage. It can also easily strike and kill multiple opponents and vehicles if they are lined up correctly. In Halo 4, its destructive capabilites are only matched by the Incineration Cannon, which is far less accurate than the Laser.
 
===Disadvantages===
As with all powerful weapons, there are a few disadvantages. The Spartan Laser needs to charge for three seconds, (four seconds after Title Update 2), before firing, and requires another two to four seconds to cool down after firing. In ''Halo 3'' and ''Halo 3: ODST'' laser uses 20% of its battery's charge per shot, giving only five shots at most. In ''[[Halo: Reach]]'' and ''[[Halo 4]]'', the weapon uses 25% of its battery power per shot, allowing a maximum of four shots.
 
The targeting laser may give away the operator's position. If a player sees the targeting beam, they could possibly dodge the shot, thus wasting valuable battery power, though this is very unlikely, as the targeting beam is very faint and hard to see in the midst of battle, and at long distances. However, it is possible to hear the laser if you are near the operator, and can thus enact a countermeasure to prevent the operator from striking. A point blank shot can cause fatal splash damage to the wielder, and close-range combat with the weapon puts them at risk of being injured or killed by debris.
 
The Laser's cycle time is dangerously long; while venting, the user is vulnerable to counter attack.


Finally, the laser is infamous for the difficulty in aiming the weapon, being nearly impossible for inexperienced players to engage quick, erratically-moving targets (such as infantry units). This is caused by the charging time, which mandates that the player keep a manual, accurate lock on his or her opponent, lest the laser discharge in vain. Should the target duck behind cover or out of line of sight and the operator cancel the firing sequence, it starts from the beginning.
In ''[[Halo Wars]]'' campaign, [[Jerome-092]] and two of the members of [[Team Omega]] are armed with Spartan Lasers. In ''Halo Wars'' [[skirmish]], the Spartan Laser is the final upgrade available to Spartans, available through the [[UNSC Barracks]]. The [[AV-22 Sparrowhawk]], a unit exclusive to [[Ellen Anders]], is equipped with a chin-mounted Spartan Laser. In ''[[Halo Wars 2]]'' campaign, Jerome-092 again wields the Spartan Laser, while in skirmish, Jerome-092 can equip the Spartan Laser upon researching Spartan Upgrade level Two in the [[UNSC Armory]]. The UNSC Super Unit [[G81 Condor]] is equipped with twin dual laser cannons in addition to a Mini-MAC.


===''Halo 3'' and ''Halo 3: ODST''===
==Production notes==
The weapon is not available in the ''Halo 3'' [[campaign]] until the level ''[[The Covenant (level)|The Covenant]]'', in which [[John-117]] begins the level armed with the Spartan Laser. There is another Spartan Laser lying nearby on the ground near the Pelican, presumably dropped by a Marine when it was shot down. The M6 is the only weapon able to harm [[343 Guilty Spark]] on the [[Halo (Halo 3 level)|final level of ''Halo 3'']], with the exception of the Fuel Rod Gun and Rocket Launcher, through a [[glitch]].
* "Grindell" may be a reference to to [[Wikipedia:Harry Grindell Matthews|Harry Grindell Matthews]], an English inventor who claimed to have invented a death ray in the 1920s. The word "Galilean" is also printed on the side of the weapon.
* As a reference to [[Project GUNGNIR|its development program]], the sides of the M6/R and M6/V have the [[List of references to Norse mythology in Halo|Norse]] symbol for [[Wikipedia:Gungnir|Gungnir]] etched into it, which was the mythical spear wielded by the god [[Wikipedia:Odin|Odin]] in Norse Mythology. Gungnir was described as having the ability to always hit its mark. Part of the mythology is that Odin would hurl his spear over the doomed side of a battle.  
*During the [[development of Halo 3|development]] of ''[[Halo 3]]'', [[Bungie]] envisioned the Spartan Laser as a weapon which could be only carried by Spartans. When they were deployed onto the battlefield, infantry would call this deployment "rolling thunder".{{Ref/Twitter|Isaac_Hannaford|1376661644185464832|Isaac Hannaford|Quote=We imagined the spartan laser as a Spartan specific weapon.  When Spartans entered the battlefield soldiers would refer to their approach as rolling thunder.|D=02|M=5|Y=2021}}
* Early concept art of the ''Halo: Reach'' starfighter [[FSS-1000 Sabre]] includes the Spartan Laser, which was replaced by the [[ST/Medusa missile|Medusa missiles]] in the final design. The starfighter depicted in the concept art, along with its Spartan Laser, were later canonized as the [[S-930 Pegasus]] and the [[M11B nonlinear cannon]], respectively.{{Ref/Reuse|digsite}}


In ''[[Halo 3]]'' [[Multiplayer]], killing another player with the Spartan Laser awards the [[Laser Kill Medal]]. The achievement "Two for One" is unlocked by scoring a double kill with a single laser shot in any ranked free-for-all playlist.
== Trivia ==
 
* [[Luke Smith]]'s comment on the Spartan Laser, "It's not overpowered, it's an elegant weapon from a more civilized age," is a reference to ''Star Wars''{{'}} [[StarWars:Lightsaber|lightsabers]], described as such by [[StarWars:Obi-Wan Kenobi|Obi-Wan Kenobi]].{{Ref/Site|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=12442|Site=Bungie.net|Page=Bungie Weekly Update 5/11/07|D=21|M=4|Y=2017}}
In ''Halo 3: ODST'', the weapon appears in the levels ''[[Uplift Reserve (level)|Uplift Reserve]]'', ''[[Kizingo Boulevard (level)|Kizingo Boulevard]]'', ''[[ONI Alpha Site (level)|ONI Alpha Site]]'', ''[[NMPD HQ (level)|NMPD HQ]]'', and ''[[Coastal Highway]]'', usually in hands of [[Dutch]], as well as in all [[Firefight]] maps. The weapon charges slightly faster than in ''Halo 3''.
* In ''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]'', the Spartan Laser is shown to be able to deflect an energy sword and is, in that instance, [[Dual wielding|dual wielded]] with an [[M7 SMG]]. In addition, after [[Frederic-104]] fires his Spartan Laser twice, his HUD shows its battery has 80% of its power left, meaning his Spartan Laser has only expended 10% of its power with each shot. However, in ''Halo 3'', ''Halo 3: ODST'', and ''Halo: Reach'' as well as ''Halo 4'' and ''Halo 5: Guardians'', the Spartan Laser uses 20% and 25% of its battery with each shot, respectively. It is possible the Spartan Laser can change the amount of battery charge used in its shots, as the shots fired by Frederic seem dramatically weaker than those fired in the games.
 
===''Halo Wars''===
*In the campaign, [[Jerome-092]] and two of the members of [[Team Omega]] are armed with Spartan Lasers.
*In [[skirmish]] and multiplayer, the Spartan Laser is the final upgrade available to SPARTANs.
*The Sparrowhawk is equipped with a chin-mounted Spartan Laser.<ref name="Anders"/>
 
===''Halo Reach''===
 
In campaign, multiplayer, or Firefight, getting 5, 10, and 15 kills with the Spartan Laser without dying will award (respectivly) the "Laser Spree", "Red Menace", and "Sunburst" medals to the player. Like in Halo 3, killing an enemy with the weapon will give the player a Laser Kill Medal and one point towards the "Heavy Weapons" Commendation (or the equivilent, depending on the game mode)
 
===''Halo 4''===
The spree medals are not present in Halo 4 multiplayer, though the "Laser Kill" medal remains, and gaining a kill with the weapon will award a single point towards the "Spartan Laser" commendation.
 
===Changes from ''Halo 3'' and ''Halo 3: ODST'' to ''Halo: Reach''===
*The Spartan Laser has a slightly altered form factor, a darker color scheme, a different charging animation, and a thermal display attached to the side, which folds out when the weapon is unholstered or picked up. The weapon depletes a quarter of the battery's charge per shot, meaning it only has four shots, decreased from five in ''Halo 3'' and ''Halo 3: ODST'' .
*The Spartan Laser has a longer forward grip, with less space between it and the trigger than in ''Halo 3'', making it appear that there is not enough space for the forward grip to fold up when not in use.
*When the weapon is charged, instead of one arrow moving down on the side of the reticule, two arrows move toward each other, meeting at the side of the reticule.
*The charging time is now 2.5 seconds exactly.
*The scope no longer zooms out instantly after each shot.
*The beam can now be moved in a sweeping motion (albeit for a brief time), inflicting (reduced) damage to multiple targets.
 
===Changes from ''Halo: Reach'' to ''Halo 4''===
*The weapon has been given new sound effects.
*The weapon now lacks the rear metal bar that is present on the ''Halo: Reach'' version.
 
===Changes from ''Halo 4'' to ''Halo 5: Guardians''===
*It has been given a new paint job of a white finish.
*Beam deals variable damage depending on where it hits.
*Damage no longer applied all at once; beam deals less damage if not all of it hits.
*General decrease in overall damage, potentially requiring more than one shot for even light-armored vehicles such as the Mongoose, Warthog, or Banshee - though the weapon has since been buffed.


== Gallery ==
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of M6 Spartan Laser}}
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of M6 Spartan Laser}}
=== Concept art ===
<gallery>
File:Halo3Beta-M6SpartanLaser-crop.png|Concept art of the M6 Spartan Laser for ''[[Halo 3]]''.
File:H4_ShotgunSplaser_Concept.jpg|Concept art of the M6 Spartan Laser in ''[[Halo 4]]''.
File:H5G-spartanlaser concept final.jpg|Concept art of the M6/E Spartan Laser in ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''.
</gallery>


==Trivia==
=== Screenshots ===
*As a reference to its development program, the side of the weapon has the Norse symbol for [[Wikipedia:Gungnir|Gungnir]] etched into it, which was the mythical spear wielded by the god Odin in Norse Mythology. Gungnir was described as having the ability to always hit its mark. Part of the mythology is that Odin would hurl his spear over the doomed side of a battle. The word "Galilean" is also printed on the side of the weapon.
*The Spartan Laser's beam seems to trail off forever when fired into the sky, very much like the [[Sentinel beam]]. The beam of both weapons does end, however, usually at the invisible walls of the playing area. The laser beam on [[Sandtrap]] covers over 75% of the width of the area when fired at a 45-degree angle.
*It remains unclear what kind of mechanism the M6 uses to create its laser beam. Some have suggested that it uses a chemical laser; however, a gas or chemical laser does not produce a powerful energy output, and also require large amounts of highly volatile and toxic chemicals to function, which are expended as the weapon fires. The weapon seems to be only powered by a rechargeable battery pack, hinting that it may be a Solid-State Laser or Free Electron Laser, which does not require a constant source of a chemical gain medium.
*Luke Smith's comment: "It's not overpowered, it's an elegant weapon from a more civilized age," is a reference to ''Star Wars''' [[W:C:StarWars:Lightsaber|lightsabers]], described as such by [[W:C:StarWars:Obi-Wan Kenobi|Obi-Wan Kenobi]].
*In ''[[The Package]]'', the Spartan Laser is shown to be able to deflect an energy sword and is, in that instance, [[Dual Wielding|dual wielded]] with an [[M7/Caseless Submachine Gun|SMG]].
*In ''The Package'', after [[Frederic-104]] fires his Spartan Laser twice, his HUD shows its battery has 80% of its power left, meaning his Spartan Laser has only expended 10% of its power with each shot. However, in ''Halo 3'', ''Halo 3: ODST'' and ''Halo: Reach'' as well as ''Halo 4'', the Spartan Laser uses 20% and 25% of its battery with each shot respectively. It is possible the Spartan Laser can change the amount of battery charge used in its shots, as the shots fired by Frederic seem dramatically weaker than those fired in the games.
*When the player picks up a Spartan Laser that has a battery percentage that does not divide by 20 evenly, he will be able to fire a 20% powered laser and another shot after that with the remaining charge.
*As with all battery weapons, a weapon with low power that is dropped on the ground when its AI operator is killed will be assigned a random power level between 60% and 70%, unless you have the famine skull on.
*Oddly, the Spartan Laser's barrel cover can be seen opening up when the player switches to it, even though it is already open on the player's back.
*Early concept art of the ''Halo: Reach'' starfighter [[YSS-1000 Sabre]] includes the Spartan Laser, which was most likely replaced by the [[ST/Medusa missile|Medusa missiles]].
*Unlike other weapons, an emptied M6 G/GNR will never appear on the ground when dropped.
*The ''Halo 4'' model of the Spartan Laser has an electric shock warning of 1.21 gigawatts, in reference to the [[wikipedia:DeLorean_time_machine#Fuel|DeLorean time machine]] from the [[Wikipedia:Back to the Future|''Back to the Future'']] series. The laser aperture warning decals say, ''"Big Scary Laser: Do not look into beam with remaining eye."''
 
==Gallery==
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:Halo3Beta-M6SpartanLaser-crop.png|Concept art of the M6 Spartan Laser for ''[[Halo 3]]''.
File:M6 Spartan Laser.png|An angled view of the M6/R Spartan Laser in ''Halo 3''.
File:H3-M6SpartanLaser.png|A profile view of the M6 Spartan Laser in ''Halo 3''.
File:M6 Spartan Laser.png|The M6 Spartan Laser in ''Halo 3''.
File:H3-M6SpartanLaser-FirstPerson.png|A first-person view of the M6 Spartan Laser.
File:Halo3.comspartanlaser.PNG|A blueprint of the Galilean.
File:H3-SpartanLaserHUD.png|HUD of the Spartan Laser in ''Halo 3''.
File:H3-SpartanLaserHUD.png|HUD of the Spartan Laser in ''Halo 3''.
File:H3-SpartanLaserzoom.png|The 2x zoom of the Spartan Laser.
File:HW-SpartanIIsM6s.png|[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark IV|Mark IV]]-clad Spartan-IIs with Spartan Lasers in ''[[Halo Wars]]''.
File:H3-SP Lazer.jpg|A 2D Spartan Laser uncovered through [[modding]].
File:26029193-Full.jpg|The end of the laser beam across [[Sandtrap]].
File:HW-SpartanIIsM6s.png|[[Mark IV]]-clad Spartan-IIs with Spartan Lasers in ''[[Halo Wars]]''.
File:Sparrow Laser.jpg|A [[Sparrowhawk]] fires its nose-mounted Spartan Laser. Note the blueish beam, instead of the normal red laser.
File:Sparrow Laser.jpg|A [[Sparrowhawk]] fires its nose-mounted Spartan Laser. Note the blueish beam, instead of the normal red laser.
File:Fred 2.jpg|[[Frederic-104]] firing a Spartan Laser in ''[[The Package]]''.
File:Fred 2.jpg|[[Frederic-104]] firing a Spartan Laser in ''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''.
File:Reach_M6 G-GNR.jpg|Concept art of the M6 G/GNR for ''[[Halo: Reach]]''.
File:Spartan Laser fsp Reticle.jpg|A first-person view of the Spartan Laser's targeting reticule firing at short-range in the ''Halo: Reach'' Beta.
File:Spartan Laser Reach Beta.jpg|A [[B-class Mjolnir|Mark V(B)]]-clad [[Spartan-III]] wielding a Spartan Laser in the ''Halo: Reach'' Beta.
File:HReach-M6SpartanLaser.png|In-game side profile of the M6 Spartan Laser in ''Halo: Reach''.
File:Halo Reach - Model 8 SP Laser.png|The M6 G/GNR in ''Halo: Reach''.
File:Halo Reach - Side Profile Model 8.png|A profile view of the Spartan Laser in ''Halo: Reach''.
File:H4-Concept-M6SpartanLaser.jpg|Concept art of the M6 Spartan Laser in ''[[Halo 4]]''.
File:H4-M6SpartanLaser-LeftSide.png|In-game left side view of the M6 Spartan Laser in ''Halo 4''.
File:H4-M6SpartanLaser-LeftSide.png|In-game left side view of the M6 Spartan Laser in ''Halo 4''.
File:M6_GGNR_with_active_cowling.jpg|An M6 G/GNR with the protective cowling still deployed.
File:M6_GGNR_with_active_cowling.jpg|An M6 G/GNR with the protective cowling still deployed.
File:H4-MP-M6SpartanLaser-HUD-02.jpg|First-person view of the M6 Spartan Laser in ''Halo 4'''s multiplayer.
File:H4-MP-M6SpartanLaser-HUD-02.jpg|HUD of the M6 Spartan Laser in ''Halo 4''{{'}}s multiplayer.
File:H4-MP-M6SpartanLaser-Scope-01.jpg|A view through the M6 Spartan Laser's scope.
File:SarahPalmerLaser SpartanAssault.png|[[SPARTAN-IV program|Spartan]] [[Sarah Palmer]] using the M6 G/GNR against a {{Pattern|Zurdo|Wraith}} in ''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''.
File:M6 Laser.png|HUD icon of the Spartan Laser in ''Halo 4''.
File:HSS Spartan Laser.png|A Spartan-IV holding a Spartan laser in ''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''.
File:Splaserhud.jpeg|Render of the Spartan laser scope in ''Halo 4''.
File:HSS_Spartan_laser_model.png|An M6 Spartan Laser in ''Halo: Spartan Strike''.
File:M6 GGNR warning sticker.jpg|A warning sticker placed on the right side of the Spartan Laser.
FIle:H5G-M6EHUD-Campaign.png|HUD of the M6/E Spartan Laser by [[Edward Buck]] in the ''Halo 5: Guardians'' campaign.
File:M6_GGNR_rear_sticker.jpg|A 'high voltage' warning sticker placed on the back of the Spartan Laser.
File:H5G-M6ESS.png|Third-person view of the M6/E Spartan Laser engaged in smart scope.
File:SarahPalmerLaser SpartanAssault.png|[[SPARTAN-IV program|Spartan]] [[Sarah Palmer]] using the M6 G/GNR against a [[Type-26 Wraith]] in ''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''.
File:HCSSpartans.png|An [[ATHLON-class Mjolnir|Athlon]]-clad Spartan-IV holding a M6E Spartan Laser.
File:H5G-M6EHUD.png|First-person view of the M6E Spartan Laser in ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''.
File:H5G-M6Ezoom.png|[[Smart scope]] with the M6E Spartan Laser on [[Fathom]].
File:H5G-M6ESS.png|Third-person view of the M6E Spartan Laser engaged in smart scope
File:H5G-M6SpartanLaser.png|Spartan Laser in ''Halo 5: Guardians''
File:H5G-M6Elaser.png|The Spartan Laser's laser in ''Halo 5: Guardians''
File:H5G-Warrior&M6E.png|A Spartan wielding the M6E Spartan Laser
File:H5G-SelenesLanceHUD.png|First-person view of ''Selene's Lance'' in ''Halo 5: Guardians''
File:H5G-SelenesLance.png|A Spartan wielding ''Selene's Lance''
File:H5G-EndgameHUD.png|First-person view of ''Endgame''
File:H5G-Endgame.png|A Spartan wielding ''Endgame''
File:HO-SpartanLaser.jpg|A Spartan Laser in ''Halo Online''.
File:HO-SpartanLaser.jpg|A Spartan Laser in ''Halo Online''.
</gallery>
</gallery>


===''Halo 5: Guardians'' REQ Cards===
== List of appearances ==
<gallery>
* ''[[Believe]]''
File:REQ_Card_-_Spartan_Laser.png|Spartan Laser - Basic Weapon
** ''[[Diorama]]'' {{1st}} {{C|Diorama only}}
File:Endgame.png|Spartan Laser - ''Endgame'' Variant
* ''[[Halo 3]]''
File:Seleneslance.png|Spartan Laser - ''Selene's Lance'' Variant
* ''[[Halo Wars]]''
</gallery>
* ''[[Halo: Helljumper]]''
* ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
* ''[[Halo Legends]]''
** ''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''
* ''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
* ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
** ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Invasion|Invasion]]''
* ''[[Halo 4]]''
** ''[[Spartan Ops]]''
* ''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''
* ''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''
* ''[[Halo: Last Light]]'' {{Mo}}
* ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''
* ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
*''[[Halo: The Television Series]]''
**''[[Solace (TV Series)|Solace]]'' {{C|Hologram only}}
*''[[Halo: Vertical Umbrage]]''


==List of appearances==
==Notes==
*''[[Believe]]''
{{Ref/Notes}}
**''[[Diorama]]'' {{1st}} {{C|Diorama only}}
*''[[Halo 3]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo: Helljumper]]''
*''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
**''[[The Package]]''
*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
*''[[Halo: Reach]]''
*''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Invasion|Invasion]]''
*''[[Halo 4]]''
**''[[Spartan Ops]]''
*''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''
*''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''
*''[[Halo: Last Light]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
*''[[Halo: Ground Command]]''
*''[[Halo Wars 2]]''


==Sources==
== Sources ==
<references/>
{{Ref/Sources}}


{{UNSC support weapons}}
{{UNSC support weapons}}
[[Category:Directed-energy weapons]]
[[Category:Directed-energy weapons]]

Latest revision as of 05:41, July 19, 2024

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

Manufacturer:

Misriah Armory[1]

Model series:

M6

Type:

Directed-energy weapon[1]

Cost:

218,000 cR[2][3]

Variants:

Specifications

Length:

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

Width:

7.7 inches (20 cm) (M6/X)[5]

Height:

15.4 inches (39 cm) (M6/X)[5]

Weight:

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

Ammunition type:

Feed system:

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

Operation:

Directed-energy[1]

Rate of fire:

Semi-automatic[4]

Muzzle velocity:

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

Effective range:

Long[1]

Service history

In service:

 

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

Overview[edit]

Design details[edit]

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

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

Operation[edit]

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

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

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

Usage[edit]

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

Variants[edit]

There are four known variants of the M6 Spartan Lasers:

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

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

Gameplay[edit]

Main article: Spartan Laser

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

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

Production notes[edit]

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

Trivia[edit]

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

Gallery[edit]

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Concept art[edit]

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

    Concept art of the M6 Spartan Laser for Halo 3.

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

    Concept art of the M6 Spartan Laser in Halo 4.

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

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

Screenshots[edit]

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

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

  • HUD of the Spartan Laser in Halo 3.

    HUD of the Spartan Laser in Halo 3.

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

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

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

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

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

    Frederic-104 firing a Spartan Laser in The Package.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • An M6 Spartan Laser in Halo: Spartan Strike.

    An M6 Spartan Laser in Halo: Spartan Strike.

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

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

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

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

  • A Spartan Laser in Halo Online.

    A Spartan Laser in Halo Online.

List of appearances[edit]

Notes[edit]

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

Sources[edit]

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

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