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HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark IX Mantis: Difference between revisions

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{{Era|UNSC|HCW|Post}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{disambig header|the powered exoskeleton|the Covenant anti-air cannon nicknamed the "Mantis"|Type-27 Mantis}}
{{disambig header|the powered exoskeleton|the Covenant anti-air cannon nicknamed the "Mantis"|Type-27 Mantis}}
{{Vehicle infobox
{{Vehicle infobox
|name=HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark IX Mantis
|name=HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark IX Mantis
|image=[[File:H5G-Mantis Default.png|300px]]
|image=[[File:H5G-Mantis Default.png|300px]]
|manufacturer=[[Materials Group]]<ref name="universe">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/vehicles/mantis '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Mantis'']</ref>
|manufacturer=[[Materials Group]]{{Ref/Site|Id=universe|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/vehicles/mantis|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Mantis|D=03|M=12|Y=2016}}
<br>[[Hannibal Weapon Systems]]
<br>[[Hannibal Weapon Systems]]
|line=HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL<ref name="universe"/>
|line=[[Project HRUNTING|HRUNTING]]/[[Project YGGDRASIL|YGGDRASIL]]{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
|model=Mark IX<ref name="universe"/>
|model=
|cost=
|cost=
|length={{Convert|2.8|m|ft|sp=us}}<ref name="universe"/>
|length={{Convert|9.3|ft|m|disp=flip|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
|width={{Convert|5.8|m|ft|sp=us}}<ref name="universe"/>
|width={{Convert|19|ft|m|disp=flip|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
|height={{Convert|5.7|m|ft|sp=us}}<ref name="universe"/>
|height={{Convert|18.6|ft|m|disp=flip|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
|mass={{Convert|5.2|MT}}<ref name="universe"/>
|mass={{Convert|5.2|MT|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
|max speed={{Convert|55.5|km/h|mph|sp=us}}<ref name="universe"/>
|max speed={{Convert|43.5|km/h|mph|sp=us}}-{{Convert|55.5|km/h|mph|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
|engine=
|engine=
|hull=
|hull=
|armament=*[[M655 machine gun]]<ref name="universe"/><ref name="h4guide">[http://www.halowaypoint.com/en-US/halo4guide '''Halo 4 Interactive Guide'''] (defunct)</ref>
|armament=
*[[M5920 missile launcher]]<ref name="universe"/><ref name="h4guide"/>
*[[M655 machine gun]]{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}{{Ref/Site|Id=h4guide|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/intel/inteldetail/aca271b6-022f-4889-9f68-7c234bb0b598/mantis-|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Halo 4 Interactive Guide - Vehicles: Mantis|D=01|M=05|Y=2013|LocalArchive=Halo 4 Interactive Guide#Vehicles}}
|crew=One operator<ref name="universe"/>
*[[M5920 missile launcher]]{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}{{Ref/Reuse|h4guide}}
|crew=1 operator{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
|complement=
|complement=
|consumables=
|consumables=
|othersystems=
|othersystems=
|firstuse=[[2403]]<ref name="universe"/>
|firstuse=[[2403]]{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
|service=*[[Human-Covenant War]]
|service=*[[Human-Covenant War]]
*[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
*[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
|role=Armor defense system
|role=
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
}}
}}
{{Quote|Like the Cyclops mech suit but bigger and better and badder.|[[Black-Box]]<ref>'''[[Halo: The Thursday War]]''', ''page 364''</ref>}}
{{Quote|Like the Cyclops mech suit but bigger and better and badder.|[[Black-Box]]<ref>'''[[Halo: The Thursday War]]''', ''page 364''</ref>}}


The '''HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark IX Armor Defense System''',<ref name="h4guide"/> commonly known as the '''Mantis''', is a [[powered exoskeleton]]/[[wikipedia:Armoured fighting vehicle|armored fighting vehicle]] used by the [[UNSC Marine Corps]], [[UNSC Army]], [[Office of Naval Intelligence]], and private security forces<ref name="universe"/> after the [[Human-Covenant War]].<ref name="OXM">'''Official Xbox Magazine''' ''October 2012''</ref><ref name="THB 10.17.12">[http://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2012/10/17/The-Halo-Bulletin-101712-.aspx ''The Halo Bulletin 10.17.12'']</ref><!-- <ref name="expertzone"/> --> It is derived, if tangentially, from the HRUNTING and [[Project YGGDRASIL|YGGDRASIL]] teams' earlier [[HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark I ADS|Mark I Armor Defense System]].<ref name="h4guide"/>
The '''HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark IX Armor Defense System''',{{Ref/Reuse|h4guide}} commonly known as the '''Mantis''', is a [[powered exoskeleton]]/[[wikipedia:Armoured fighting vehicle|armored fighting vehicle]] used by the [[UNSC Marine Corps]], [[UNSC Army]], [[Office of Naval Intelligence]], and private security forces{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} after the [[Human-Covenant War]].<ref name="OXM">'''Official Xbox Magazine''' ''October 2012''</ref><ref name="THB 10.17.12">[http://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2012/10/17/The-Halo-Bulletin-101712-.aspx ''The Halo Bulletin 10.17.12'']</ref><!-- {{Ref/Reuse|expertzone}} --> It is derived, if tangentially, from the HRUNTING and [[Project YGGDRASIL|YGGDRASIL]] teams' earlier [[HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark I ADS|Mark I Armor Defense System]].{{Ref/Reuse|h4guide}}


==Specifications==
==Overview==
===Design details===
===Design details===
Standing roughly twenty feet tall and weighing over five metric tons,<ref name="universe"/> the Mantis is similar in appearance to the larger [[HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark II (D) armor system]], which itself was the evolution of [[HRUNTING Mark III (B) Exoskeleton|another HRUNTING project]]. Its spindly legs and tiny "thorax" give the Mantis a passing resemblance to [[Wikipedia:Mantis|its namesake]], as do its weaponized arms. Though it lacks the sheer firepower and durability of the [[M808 Scorpion]], the Mantis is far more maneuverable, requires one crew member, and is equipped with [[Energy shielding|regenerating energy shields]].<ref>[[:File:Mantis in action.jpg|Image showing energy shield flaring]]</ref><ref name="THB 10.17.12"/> The Mantis integrates many features seen in the [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor]], such as the [[neural interface]] link, compact [[Fusion reactor|fusion power plant]], and shield generator. The Mantis is capable of a maximum speed of 43.5–55.5 kilometers per hour (27–34.5 miles per hour).<ref name="universe"/>
Standing roughly twenty feet tall and weighing over five metric tons,{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} the Mantis is similar in appearance to the larger [[HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark II (D) Geyrion]], which itself was the evolution of [[HRUNTING Mark III (B) Exoskeleton|another HRUNTING project]]. Its spindly legs and tiny "thorax" give the Mantis a passing resemblance to [[Wikipedia:Mantis|its namesake]], as do its weaponized arms. Though it lacks the sheer firepower and durability of the [[M808 Scorpion]], the Mantis is far more maneuverable, requires one crew member, and is equipped with [[Energy shielding|regenerating energy shields]].{{Ref/Reuse|THB 10.17.12}}<ref>[[:File:Mantis in action.jpg|Image showing energy shield flaring]]</ref> The Mantis integrates many features seen in the [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor]], such as the [[neural interface]] link, compact [[Fusion reactor|fusion power plant]], and shield generator. The Mantis is capable of a maximum speed of 43.5–55.5 kilometers per hour (27–34.5 miles per hour).{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}


===Armaments===
===Armaments===
There are two primary versions of the Mantis' weapon loadouts, both of which have an anti-matériel machine gun on the right arm and a missile pod on the left. One variant has a larger-caliber cannon and surface-to-air missiles; the other version has an [[machine gun|M655 20mm heavy machine gun]] and [[M5920 missile launcher|M5920 35mm surface-to-surface missiles]].<ref name="THB 10.17.12"/> The Mantis does not currently feature modular [[hardpoint]]s that allow armament swapping, though both the [[UNSC Marine Corps]] and the [[UNSC Army|Army]] have contracted [[Materials Group]] to produce a refit package to allow alternate loadouts.<ref name="universe"/>
There are two primary versions of the Mantis' weapon loadouts, both of which have an anti-matériel machine gun on the right arm and a missile pod on the left. One variant has a larger-caliber cannon and surface-to-air missiles; the other version has an [[machine gun|M655 20mm heavy machine gun]] and [[M5920 missile launcher|M5920 35mm surface-to-surface missiles]].{{Ref/Reuse|THB 10.17.12}} The Mantis does not currently feature modular [[hardpoint]]s that allow armament swapping, though both the [[UNSC Marine Corps]] and the [[UNSC Army|Army]] have contracted [[Materials Group]] to produce a refit package to allow alternate loadouts.{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}


==Variants==
==Variants==
Similar to the [[HRUNTING Mark III Cyclops]], there are numerous variants of the Mantis that have proven useful for a whole host of varied functions.<ref name="canon fodder greek">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/community/blog-posts/canon-fodder-greek-squad '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Canon Fodder - Greek Squad'']</ref>
Similar to the [[HRUNTING Mark III (B) Cyclops]], there are numerous variants of the Mantis that have proven useful for a whole host of varied functions.<ref name="canon fodder greek">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-greek-squad '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Canon Fodder - Greek Squad'']</ref>
*'''Corp Mantis''': Up-armored model used by the [[Liang-Dortmund Corporation]]. Liang-Dortmund occasionally loan their Mantises to local security forces for riot duty and shows of force. Their ammunition is usually replaced with non-lethal alternatives.<ref name="H5G">'''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'''</ref> The corporation also employs non-combat variants that are used in their colony reclamation efforts for terrain navigation to mining operations.<ref name="canon fodder greek"/>
 
*'''Tundra Mantis''': Variant designed for use in arctic environments and has more armor than the Corp variant.<ref name="H5G"/>
*'''Corp Mantis''': Up-armored model used by the [[Liang-Dortmund Corporation]]. Liang-Dortmund occasionally loan their Mantises to local security forces for riot duty and shows of force. Their ammunition is usually replaced with non-lethal alternatives.<ref name="H5G">'''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'''</ref> The corporation also employs non-combat variants that are used in their colony reclamation efforts for terrain navigation to mining operations.{{Ref/Reuse|canon fodder greek}}
*'''Woodland Mantis''': Variant features a woodland camouflage and more armor than the Corp variant.<ref name="H5G"/>
 
*'''Urban Mantis''': Variant used by the UNSC Army and UNSC Marine Corps that features more armor than the Corp variant.<ref name="H5G"/>
*'''Tundra Mantis''': Variant designed for use in arctic environments and has more armor than the Corp variant.{{Ref/Reuse|H5G}}
*'''ONI Mantis''': Variant used by the [[Office of Naval Intelligence]] that features more armor than other variants, multi-environment homing missiles capable of locking on to ground infantry, and better heat sink shrouds for the heavy machine gun . <ref name="H5G"/>
 
*'''Hannibal Mantis''': Variant upgraded by [[Hannibal Weapon Systems]] that features a rapid-fire gauss cannon, experimental ion field missile warheads that releases several submunitions, and the ability to EMP other vehicles with a stomp attack. While it doesn't have as heavy armor as the ONI variant it does have a stronger energy shield, at the cost of recharge time.<ref name="canon fodder">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/community/blog-posts/canon-fodder-close-quarters '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Canon Fodder - Close Quarters'']</ref>
*'''Woodland Mantis''': Variant features a woodland camouflage and more armor than the Corp variant.{{Ref/Reuse|H5G}}
 
*'''Urban Mantis''': Variant used by the UNSC Army and UNSC Marine Corps that features more armor than the Corp variant.{{Ref/Reuse|H5G}}
 
*'''ONI Mantis''': Variant used by the [[Office of Naval Intelligence]] that features more armor than other variants, multi-environment homing missiles capable of locking on to ground infantry, and better heat sink shrouds for the heavy machine gun .{{Ref/Reuse|H5G}}
 
*'''Hannibal Mantis''': Variant upgraded by [[Hannibal Weapon Systems]] that features a rapid-fire gauss cannon, experimental ion field missile warheads that releases several submunitions, and the ability to EMP other vehicles with a stomp attack. While it doesn't have as heavy armor as the ONI variant it does have a stronger energy shield, at the cost of recharge time.<ref name="canon fodder">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-close-quarters '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Canon Fodder - Close Quarters'']</ref>
 
*'''Isabel's Mantis''': This variant is a modified version of the basic model for use of the {{UNSCShip|Spirit of Fire}}'s ground forces, with adjustments to reuse parts produced for the [[HRUNTING Mark III (B) Cyclops|Cyclops]] and [[HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark II (J) Colossus]]. It also lacks the neural interface control systems installed on the basic model, something that was a necessary concession due to the older manufacturing technology on the ''Spirit of Fire''. This variant's default weapon is a chaingun, but it can be replaced with a gauss repeater, the missile capacity can also be upgraded. A shield requisition upgrade can be added to add shields to the Mantis. A target designator can also be added so the Mantis can "paint" a single target to coordinate attacks on using the local battle net, and if a group of Mantis walkers are together they will smart target their designators.<ref name="PL">'''Halo Wars 2''': [[Phoenix Logs#UNSC Units|Phoenix Logs]] - Mantis</ref>
 
*'''Command Mantis''': Upgraded variant armed with twin high energy lasers and fitted with an advanced energy shield. Nicknamed ''Theseus'' by [[Jerome-092]], his personalized Command Mantis is a mobile command post and linebreaker unit that complements both his augmented physiology and leadership style. It incorporates one of the ''Spirit of Fire''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s command-and-control nexus relays, enhancing Jerome's situational awareness of the battlefield and serving as a backup for the UNSC battlenet should the ship be crippled or destroyed.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/know-scope '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Community Update: Know-Scope'']</ref>
 
<gallery>
File:H5G-Corp-Mantis.png|Corp Mantis.
File:REQ Card - Urban Mantis.jpg|Urban Mantis.
File:H5G-Tundra Mantis.jpg|Tundra Mantis.
File:REQ Card - Woodland Mantis.jpg|Woodland Mantis.
File:REQ Card - ONI Mantis.jpg|ONI Mantis.
File:H5G-Hannibal Mantis render.png|Hannibal Mantis.
File:HW2 Mantis.png|Isabel's Mantis.
File:HW2 Mantis Thessus.png|Commander Jerome-092's Command Mantis ''Theseus''.
File:H5G HannibalMantis Cutout.png|A cutout of the Hannibal Mantis.
</gallery>


==Operational history==
==Operational history==
The Mantis was created as a result of two parallel exoskeleton programs, HRUNTING and YGGDRASIL, the latter of which encompassed initiatives aimed at incorporating MJOLNIR technologies into UNSC combat vehicles. During the [[Battle of Meridian]] between [[2548]] and [[2551]], the first prototype of the Mantis engaged in an action known as the "Cherbourg Run" successfully engaging eighteen heavily guarded [[Type-27 Mantis|Type-27 Anti-Aircraft Cannon]]s, which also bore the title of "Mantis". The success of the prototype in the "Cherbourg Run" is one of the theories behind the origin of the moniker of "Mantis".<ref>'''[[Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 111''</ref> However, the Mantis was only introduced into widespread service after the Covenant War ended.<ref name="universe"/><ref group="note">The "Entered Service" field on the Mantis's page on Halo Waypoint claims that the vehicle was introduced in 2403. Descriptions of the Mantis's development history on the very same page as well as the ''Halo 4 Essential Visual Guide'' contradict this, the former noting that the Mantis incorporates technologies originally developed for MJOLNIR and the latter stating that the first prototype of the vehicle was fielded late in the war. The "HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark IX" designation also implies that the Mantis was developed on top of a technology lineage that did not exist until well into the 26th century, making it impossible for it to have been developed in 2403.</ref>
{{Quote|Remind me to ask Isabel to add air conditioning.|A Mantis pilot during the Banished occupation of Installation 00.{{Ref/Reuse|HW2}}}}
The Mantis was created as a result of two parallel exoskeleton programs, HRUNTING and YGGDRASIL, the latter of which encompassed initiatives aimed at incorporating MJOLNIR technologies into UNSC combat vehicles. During the [[Battle of Meridian]] between [[2548]] and [[2551]], the first prototype of the Mantis engaged in an action known as the "Cherbourg Run" successfully engaging eighteen heavily guarded [[Skar'wa-pattern Mantis|Type-27 Anti-Aircraft Cannon]]s, which also bore the title of "Mantis". The success of the prototype in the "Cherbourg Run" is one of the theories behind the origin of the moniker of "Mantis".<ref>'''[[Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 111''</ref> However, the Mantis was only introduced into widespread service after the Covenant War ended.{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}{{Ref/Note|The "Entered Service" field on the Mantis's page on Halo Waypoint claims that the vehicle was introduced in 2403. Descriptions of the Mantis's development history on the very same page as well as the ''Halo 4 Essential Visual Guide'' contradict this, the former noting that the Mantis incorporates technologies originally developed for MJOLNIR and the latter stating that the first prototype of the vehicle was fielded late in the war. The "HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark IX" designation also implies that the Mantis was developed on top of a technology lineage that did not exist until well into the 26th century, making it impossible for it to have been developed in 2403.}}


[[File:Mantis in action.jpg|thumb|250px|left|A Mantis during the Battle of Requiem]]
[[File:Mantis in action.jpg|thumb|250px|left|A Mantis during the Battle of Requiem.]]
After the Human-Covenant War, in early [[2553]], one Mantis was delivered to [[Kilo-Five]] aboard their [[prowler]] {{UNSCShip|Port Stanley}}.<ref>'''Halo: The Thursday War''', ''page 416''</ref> The Mantis continued to be in use only by select highly classified ONI units and {{UNSCShip|Infinity}},<ref name="h4guide"/> which carried a number of Mantises by [[2557]]. After ''Infinity'' was drawn inside the [[shield world]] [[Requiem]], [[SPARTAN-II program|Spartan]] [[John-117]] used a Mantis against [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant faction|Covenant remnant]] forces in the vicinity of the ship's crash site.<ref name="OXM"/> Several Mantises were used to defend [[Ivanoff Station]].<ref>'''[[Halo 4]]''', campaign level, ''[[Composer (level)|Composer]]</ref> Later that year, ''Infinity''<nowiki />'s [[SPARTAN-IV program|Spartan-IV]] complement used a version with scaled-down weapons in [[War Games]] training.<ref name="THB 10.17.12"/> During the [[Requiem Campaign]], [[Fireteam Crimson]] was sent to rescue a squad of Marines trapped behind enemy lines. During the rescue attempt Crimson was met with overwhelming Covenant forces, [[Sarah Palmer|Commander Sarah Palmer]] ordered mission handler [[Robert Dalton]] to deploy several Mantises to aid Crimson in holding off enemy forces.<ref>'''Spartan Ops''', [[S1/Catherine|S1E3 ''Catherine'']]: ''Episode 3: Shootout In Valhalla''</ref> Several Mantises were used in the defense of [[Magma Base]].<ref>'''Spartan Ops''', ''Episode 5, Chapter 4: "The Cauldron Base"''</ref> During the attack on the ''Infinity'', [[TJ Murphy|Lieutenant Murphy]] brought in a Mantis to support Fireteam Crimson in order to clear a landing zone.<ref>'''Spartan Ops''', [[S1/Invasion|S1E7 ''Invasion'']]: ''Chapter 1: Backup''</ref>
After the Human-Covenant War, in early [[2553]], one Mantis was delivered to [[Kilo-Five]] aboard their [[prowler]] {{UNSCShip|Port Stanley}}.<ref>'''Halo: The Thursday War''', ''page 416''</ref>  


Later, when on their way back to activate the Harvester, Crimson used a salvaged Mantis to fight their way out of the Warrens.<ref>'''Spartan Ops''', [[S1/Exodus|S1E10 ''Exodus'']]: ''Chapter 4: Out the Other''</ref> Two Mantises were later deployed during the [[Battle of Aktis IV]] to fend off Covenant troops.<ref>'''Halo: Escalation''', ''[[Halo: Escalation Issue 15|Issue #15]]''</ref> Two Mantises were used by [[Fireteam Osiris]] during the [[Battle of Nuusra]] on [[Sanghelios]] in order to save [[Arbiter]] [[Thel 'Vadam]].<ref>'''Halo 5: Guardians''', campaign level ''[[Swords of Sanghelios (level)|Swords of Sanghelios]]''</ref> During the [[Battle of Genesis]], Osiris used a Mantis in a effort to free [[Blue Team]] from [[Cortana]].<ref>'''Halo 5: Guardians''', campaign level ''[[Guardians (level)|Guardians]]''</ref>
The Mantis continued to be in use only by select highly classified ONI units and {{UNSCShip|Infinity}},{{Ref/Reuse|h4guide}} which carried a number of Mantises by [[2557]]. After ''Infinity'' was drawn inside the [[shield world]] [[Requiem]], [[SPARTAN-II program|Spartan]] [[John-117]] used a Mantis against [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant|Covenant remnant]] forces besieging the ship. With the Mantis, John cleared out Covenant forces on the ship's hull and jammers blocking the use of the ship's point-defenses. John continued to use the Mantis until he was ordered to reactive the ship's MAC defenses, driving off the Covenant attackers.{{Ref/Reuse|OXM}} Several Mantises were used to defend [[Ivanoff Station]].<ref>'''[[Halo 4]]''', campaign level, ''[[Composer (level)|Composer]]</ref> Later that year, ''Infinity''<nowiki />'s [[SPARTAN-IV program|Spartan-IVs]] used a version with scaled-down weapons in [[War Games]] training.{{Ref/Reuse|THB 10.17.12}}
 
During the [[Requiem Campaign]], [[Fireteam Crimson]] was sent to rescue a squad of Marines trapped behind enemy lines. During the rescue attempt Crimson was met with overwhelming Covenant forces, [[Sarah Palmer|Commander Sarah Palmer]] ordered mission handler [[Robert Dalton]] to deploy several Mantises to aid Crimson in holding off enemy forces.<ref>'''Spartan Ops''', [[S1/Catherine|S1E3 ''Catherine'']]: ''Episode 3: Shootout In Valhalla''</ref> Several Mantises were used in the defense of [[Magma Base]].<ref>'''Spartan Ops''', ''Episode 5, Chapter 4: "The Cauldron Base"''</ref> During the attack on the ''Infinity'', [[TJ Murphy|Lieutenant Murphy]] brought in a Mantis to support Fireteam Crimson in order to clear a landing zone.<ref>'''Spartan Ops''', [[S1/Invasion|S1E7 ''Invasion'']]: ''Chapter 1: Backup''</ref> Later, when on their way back to activate the Harvester, Crimson used a salvaged Mantis to fight their way out of the Warrens.<ref>'''Spartan Ops''', [[S1/Exodus|S1E10 ''Exodus'']]: ''Chapter 4: Out the Other''</ref> Two Mantises were later deployed during the [[Battle of Aktis IV]] to fend off Covenant troops.<ref>'''Halo: Escalation''', ''[[Halo: Escalation Issue 15|Issue #15]]''</ref>
 
Two Mantises were used by [[Fireteam Osiris]] during the [[Battle of Nuusra]] on [[Sanghelios]] in order to save [[Arbiter]] [[Thel 'Vadam]], they were deployed by a Phantom commanded by [[Shipmaster]] [[Mahkee 'Chava]] on the instructions of [[Sarah Palmer]].<ref>'''Halo 5: Guardians''', campaign level ''[[Swords of Sanghelios (level)|Swords of Sanghelios]]''</ref> During the [[Battle of Genesis]], Osiris used a Mantis in an effort to free [[Blue Team]] from [[Cortana]].<ref>'''Halo 5: Guardians''', campaign level ''[[Guardians]]''</ref> In April [[2559]], during the [[Banished]] [[Second Ark Conflict|occupation]] of [[Installation 00]], the crew of the UNSC ''Spirit of Fire'' used Mantises against the Banished that had originally been stationed at the [[Henry Lamb Research Outpost]].{{Ref/Reuse|PL}}<ref name="HW2">'''[[Halo Wars 2]]'''</ref>
{{Clear}}
{{Clear}}
==Gameplay==
==Gameplay==
===''Halo 4''===
===''Halo 4''===
The Mantis has two variants, both in canon and in gameplay. The more powerful model, featured in the campaign and ''[[Spartan Ops]]'', is designed to provide the player an almost overwhelming advantage. To promote more balanced competitive play, the Mantis has less firepower in War Games and has anti-surface rather than anti-air missiles. The player may fire all five missiles by holding the left trigger, while tapping the trigger fires only one missile, similar to the [[Type-52 plasma launcher]] in ''[[Halo: Reach]]''. The player can stomp the ground with the Mantis' legs by pressing the melee button.<ref name="THB 10.17.12"/> The Mantis is also capable of crouching to lower its profile.  One major drawback about the Mantis is it has the longest recovery time from being EMP'd. The time spent standing perfectly still is a death sentence in the campaign on higher difficulty levels. The Mantis's energy shields also take a very long time to begin recharging, and even longer for it to reach full shields again.
The Mantis has two variants, both in canon and in gameplay. The more powerful model, featured in the campaign and ''[[Spartan Ops]]'', is designed to provide the player an almost overwhelming advantage. To promote more balanced competitive play, the Mantis has less firepower in War Games and has anti-surface rather than anti-air missiles. The player may fire all five missiles by holding the left trigger, while tapping the trigger fires only one missile, similar to the {{Pattern|Kopasa'mada|plasma launcher}} in ''[[Halo: Reach]]''. The player can stomp the ground with the Mantis' legs by pressing the melee button.{{Ref/Reuse|THB 10.17.12}} The Mantis is also capable of crouching to lower its profile.  One major drawback about the Mantis is it has the longest recovery time from being EMP'd. The time spent standing perfectly still is a death sentence in the campaign on higher difficulty levels. The Mantis's energy shields also take a very long time to begin recharging, and even longer for it to reach full shields again.


===''Halo 5: Guardians''===
===''Halo 5: Guardians''===
*The Mantis in ''Halo 5: Guardians'' can no longer fire its missiles one at a time. Instead all five are fired continuously, similar to the [[M80B missile launcher]]. They are also capable of locking onto multiple enemies.
*The Mantis in ''Halo 5: Guardians'' can no longer fire its missiles one at a time. Instead all five are fired continuously, similar to the [[M80B missile launcher]]. In campaign, they are also capable of locking onto multiple enemies at once, both infantry and vehicles. In multiplayer, the missiles can only lock onto aircraft, with the exception of '''ONI Mantis'''.
*Its shields recharge in full in two seconds, where as in ''Halo 4'' they took ten seconds to fully recharge.
*Its shields fully recharge in two seconds, where as in ''Halo 4'' they took ten seconds to fully recharge.
*During campaign if the player shoots an enemy with the machine gun, it will Lock-On to said enemy and the player will be able to shoot the missiles to it similar to the '''ONI Mantis''', also featuring slightly more armor than the Warzone variant indicating than either might be a diferent model or that the Warzone variant has less armor on porpouse.
*In the campaign, if the player shoots an enemy with the machine gun, it will lock on to said enemy, allowing the player to shoot homing missiles at it, similar to the '''ONI Mantis'''.
**It also features slightly more armor than the Warzone variant.
*The vehicular HUD has been reduced to the autocannon's reticle, with no HUD indicators for the missile or shield status.
*The vehicular HUD has been reduced to the autocannon's reticle, with no HUD indicators for the missile or shield status.
*Until the [[Anvil's Legacy]] update, the Mantis could be [[Boarding (gameplay mechanic)|boarded]] from the front.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/games/halo-5-guardians/updates/anvils-legacy '''Halo Waypoint.com''', ''Anvil's Legacy'']</ref>
*Until the [[Anvil's Legacy]] update, the Mantis could be [[Boarding (gameplay mechanic)|boarded]] from the front.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/games/halo-5-guardians/updates/anvils-legacy '''Halo Waypoint.com''', ''Anvil's Legacy'']</ref>
*The Mantis now comes in multiple variants for use in multiplayer.
*The Mantis now comes in multiple variants for use in multiplayer.
===''Halo Wars 2''===
In ''[[Halo Wars 2]]'', the Mantis is a unique unit accessible to [[Avery Johnson]] and Jerome-092, and is also available in Operation: SPEARBREAKER. Johnson's Mantises replace Warthogs, while Jerome has a hero Mantis. During Operation: SPEARBREAKER, Sunray 1-1 is authorized to use Mantises given by Isabel.


==Production notes==
==Production notes==
{{Linkbox|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of Mark IX Mantis ADS|gameplay=yes}}
{{Linkbox|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of Mark IX Mantis|gameplay=yes}}
During the early concept phase, [[343 Industries]] considered implementing the [[HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark I Prototype Exoskeleton|HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark I powered exoskeleton]] from the ''[[Halo Legends]]'' short ''[[Prototype]]''. Later concepts derived from this design featured a larger exoskeleton that would cover the wearer's [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor|MJOLNIR armor]]. Designing the Mantis required months of playtesting, much of which involved tweaking the speed of the "stomp" move. One of the biggest concerns was making it clear when a player is reloading the Mantis' weapons; originally, the Mantis held its arms forward as the weapons were reloaded. Due to playtesters' feedback, the animation was changed so that the mech lifts its arms when new ammunition is being fed.<ref name="THB 10.17.12"/>
During the early concept phase, [[343 Industries]] considered implementing the [[HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark I Prototype Exoskeleton|HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark I powered exoskeleton]] from the ''[[Halo Legends]]'' short ''[[Prototype]]''. Later concepts derived from this design featured a larger exoskeleton that would cover the wearer's [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor|MJOLNIR armor]]. Designing the Mantis required months of playtesting, much of which involved tweaking the speed of the "stomp" move. One of the biggest concerns was making it clear when a player is reloading the Mantis' weapons; originally, the Mantis held its arms forward as the weapons were reloaded. Due to playtesters' feedback, the animation was changed so that the mech lifts its arms when new ammunition is being fed.{{Ref/Reuse|THB 10.17.12}}


The rear of the Mantis's legs and the back of the metal plate directly under the "thorax" cockpit section sport what appear to be rocket nozzles. These are never used in gameplay. Concept art (seen below) showed similar nozzles being attached to the vehicle's "shoulders".
The rear of the Mantis's legs and the back of the metal plate directly under the "thorax" cockpit section sport what appear to be rocket nozzles. These were originally going to allow the Mantis to dodge similar to a Spartan with a [[M805X thruster pack]].<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRKyR6vqVLs '''Halo 4 Beta - Unused Mantis Animations]</ref> Concept art (seen below) showed similar nozzles being attached to the vehicle's "shoulders".


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:H4 Mantis concept art.jpg|Concept explorations for a "UNSC mech" which would eventually evolve into the Mantis for ''[[Halo 4]]''.
File:H4 Mantis concept art.jpg|Concept explorations for a "UNSC mech" which would eventually evolve into the Mantis for ''[[Halo 4]]''.
File:H4_Mantis_Sketch_Concept.jpg|More concept art
File:H4-Concept-Mantis.jpg|Concept art of the close-to-final build of the UNSC Mantis.
File:H4-Concept-Mantis.jpg|Concept art of the close-to-final build of the UNSC Mantis.
File:UNSC Mantis.png|The Mantis in ''Halo 4''
File:H4-Mantisthrust.jpg|A Mantis in an early build of ''Halo 4'' still retaining its thrust ability.
File:H4SO MantisClaw Concept.jpg|Concept art for a "Mantis Claw", intended to appear in the [[Axis Studios]] cutscenes for ''[[Spartan Ops]]''.
File:UNSC Mantis.png|The Mantis in ''Halo 4''.
File:H4-Concept-Mantis-HUD.jpg|Initial digital concept art of the Mantis' HUD.
File:H4-Concept-Mantis-HUD.jpg|Initial digital concept art of the Mantis' HUD.
File:H4-E3-Campaign-5.jpg|John-117 reviewing a Mantis aboard UNSC ''Infinity''.
File:H4-E3-Campaign-5.jpg|John-117 reviewing a Mantis aboard UNSC ''Infinity''.
Line 87: Line 123:
File:H4 Two Mantis destroyed.jpg|Two Mantises destroying each other on Ragnarok.
File:H4 Two Mantis destroyed.jpg|Two Mantises destroying each other on Ragnarok.
File:H4-Mantis-Versus-GruntRanger.jpg|A Mantis taking minor damage from an [[Unggoy Ranger]].
File:H4-Mantis-Versus-GruntRanger.jpg|A Mantis taking minor damage from an [[Unggoy Ranger]].
File:H4-Mantis-Versus-Wraith.jpg|A Mantis battling a [[Type-26 Wraith]].
File:H4-Mantis-Versus-Wraith.jpg|A Mantis battling a {{Pattern|Zurdo|Wraith}}.
File:H4-Ragnarok-Mantis-Assault.jpg|A Mantis on Ragnarok fighting.
File:H4-Ragnarok-Mantis-Assault.jpg|A Mantis on Ragnarok fighting.
File:H4-Ragnarok-Mantis-Attack.jpg|A Mantis opening fire with its [[M655 Heavy Machine Gun/Anti-Matériel]].
File:H4-Ragnarok-Mantis-Attack.jpg|A Mantis opening fire with its [[M655 Heavy Machine Gun/Anti-Matériel]].
Line 94: Line 130:
File:Halo Escalation 15.jpg|Two Mantises on the cover of ''[[Halo: Escalation]] #15''.
File:Halo Escalation 15.jpg|Two Mantises on the cover of ''[[Halo: Escalation]] #15''.
File:HE15 Mantis Battle.jpg|Two Mantises during the [[Battle of Aktis IV]].
File:HE15 Mantis Battle.jpg|Two Mantises during the [[Battle of Aktis IV]].
File:H5GC-HWSMantis.jpg|Concept art of the Hannibal Mantis for ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''.
File:H5GC-Mantis.jpg|Concept art of the Mantis for ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''.
File:H5GC-HWSMantis.jpg|Concept art of the Hannibal Mantis for ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
File:H5G-InactiveMantis.png|An inactive Mantis in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
File:H5G-InactiveMantis.png|An inactive Mantis in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
File:H5G-Mantis HUD Campaign.png|HUD of the Mantis by [[Edward Buck]] in the ''Halo 5: Guardians'' campaign.
File:H5G-Mantis TP firing1.png|The Mantis using its machine gun.
File:H5G-Mantis TP firing2.png|The Mantis using its missile launcher.
File:Mantis pair.png|A pair of Mantises fighting on Sanghelios.
File:H5G-MantisHUD.png|HUD of the Mantis in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
File:H5G-MantisHUD.png|HUD of the Mantis in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
File:H5G-MantisvsPhaeton.jpg|A Mantis firing its missiles at a [[Phaeton]] on [[Raid on Apex 7]].
File:H5G-MantisvsPhaeton.jpg|A Mantis firing its missiles at a [[Phaeton]] on [[Raid on Apex 7]].
File:Mantis pair.png|A pair of Mantises fighting on Sanghelios.
File:H5G-Mantisshielding.png|The energy shielding on a Mantis.
File:H5G-Mantisshielding.png|The energy shielding on a Mantis.
File:H5G-CorpMantis.png|A Corp Mantis on [[Escape from ARC]]
File:H5G-CorpMantis.png|A Corp Mantis on [[Escape from ARC]].
File:H5G-UrbanMantis.png|An Urban Mantis
File:H5G-UrbanMantis.png|An Urban Mantis.
File:H5G-Mantisreload.png|An Urban Mantis reloading its missile launcher while its machine gun is overheated.
File:H5G-Mantisreload.png|An Urban Mantis reloading its missile launcher while its machine gun is overheated.
File:H5G-TundraMantis.png|A Tundra Mantis
File:H5G-TundraMantis.png|A Tundra Mantis.
File:H5G-Woodland&HannibalMantis.png|A Woodland and Hannibal Mantis
File:H5G-Woodland&HannibalMantis.png|A Woodland and Hannibal Mantis.
File:H5G-ONIMantis.png|An ONI Mantis
File:H5G-ONIMantis.png|An ONI Mantis.
File:H5G-GaussMantis.png|A Hannibal Mantis activating.
File:H5G-GaussMantis.png|A Hannibal Mantis activating.
File:H5G-HannibalMantisHUD.png|HUD of the Hannibal Mantis
File:H5G-HannibalMantisHUD.png|HUD of the Hannibal Mantis.
File:H5G - Darkstar 5.jpg|A Spartan-IV boarding a Hannibal Mantis on [[Skirmish at Darkstar]].
File:H5G - Darkstar 5.jpg|A Spartan-IV boarding a Hannibal Mantis on [[Skirmish at Darkstar]].
File:H5G-HannibalMantisstomp.png|The EMP stomp of the Hannibal Mantis
File:H5G-HannibalMantisstomp.png|The EMP stomp of the Hannibal Mantis.
File:H5G-Generatordefense.png|An ONI and Hannibal Mantis defending generators in Warzone Firefight.
File:H5G-Generatordefense.png|An ONI and Hannibal Mantis defending generators in Warzone Firefight.
File:H5G-Mantisgangbang.png|Two ONI Mantises, a Corp Mantis, and Hannibal Mantis surround a mythic [[Warden Eternal]].
File:H5G-Mantisgangbang.png|Two ONI Mantises, a Corp Mantis, and Hannibal Mantis surround a mythic [[Warden Eternal]].
</gallery>
File:HW2C-Mantis.png|Concept art of a Mantis for ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''.
 
File:HW2 - Theseus concept art.jpg|Concept art of ''Theseus''.
===''Halo 5: Guardians'' variants===
File:HW2 Mantis Render 1.jpg|Models of the Mantis for ''Halo Wars 2''.
<gallery>
File:HW2 Mantis Render 2.jpg|Models of the Mantis for ''Halo Wars 2''.
File:Mantis.jpg|Mantis
File:HW2 Mantis HiPoly 1.jpg|Models of the Mantis for ''Halo Wars 2''.
File:Corpmantis.jpg|Corp Mantis
File:HW2 Mantis HiPoly 2.jpg|Models of the Mantis for ''Halo Wars 2''.
File:Urbanmantis.jpg|Urban Mantis
File:HW2 - Theseus models.jpg|Model of Theseus for ''Halo Wars 2''.
File:H5G-Tundra Mantis.jpg|Tundra Mantis
File:Isabels Mantis 1.png|Isabel's Mantis on Installation 00.
File:ONImantis.jpg|ONI Mantis
File:Isabels Mantis 2.png|Isabel's Mantis with Missile/Shied Requisition.
File:H5G-Hannibal Mantis render.png|Hannibal Mantis
File:Isabels Mantis 3.png|A fully upgraded Mantis in ''Halo Wars 2''.
File:HW2 Blitz Veteran Mantis.jpg|Blitz card of a Veteran Mantis.
File:HW2 Blitz Mantis.jpg|Blitz card of the Mantis.
File:HW2-Johnsonmechs.png|Comparison between the [[HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark II (J) Colossus]], Mantis, [[HRUNTING Mark III (B) Cyclops|Cyclops]], and [[HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark I (J) Green Machine]].
File:HW2-MantisesvsHonorGuard.png|An army of Mantises attack a [[Sangheili Honor Guardsman]].
File:HW2-Mecharmy.png|An army of Mantises, with Cyclops and a Colossus, attack a Banished Outpost.
File:HW2-Jerome&Mantis.png|Commander Jerome and ''Theseus''.
File:HW2-Theseus.png|Commander Jerome piloting ''Theseus''.
File:HW2-BlitzJerome&Mantis.jpg|''Theseus'' Blitz art.
File:HW2-Theseuslasers.png|''Theseus'' firing its lasers at [[Aggressor Sentinel]]s.
File:HW2-Theseusmissiles.png|''Theseus'' firing its missiles at Aggressor Sentinels.
File:HW2-TheseusvsOutpost.png|''Theseus'' attacking a Banished Outpost.
File:HW2-Theseus&Normies.png|''Theseus'' with other Mantises attack a Banished Outpost.
</gallery>
</gallery>


Line 130: Line 182:
*''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
*''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
*''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
*''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
*''[[Halo Wars 2]]''


==Notes==
==Notes==
<references group="note"/>
{{Ref/Notes}}


==Sources==
==Sources==
<references/>
{{Ref/Sources}}
 
{{UNSC Vehicles}}
{{Armor}}


[[Category:Armor]]
{{Human exoskeletons}}
[[Category:UNSC Vehicles]]

Latest revision as of 16:38, August 8, 2024

This article is about the powered exoskeleton. For the Covenant anti-air cannon nicknamed the "Mantis", see Type-27 Mantis.
HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark IX Mantis
H5G-Mantis Default.png
Production information

Manufacturer:

Materials Group[1]
Hannibal Weapon Systems

Product line:

HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL[1]

Technical specifications

Length:

2.8 meters (9.3 ft)[1]

Width:

5.8 meters (19 ft)[1]

Height:

5.7 meters (18.6 ft)[1]

Mass:

5.2 metric tons (5.1 LT; 5.7 ST)[1]

Maximum speed:

43.5 kilometers per hour (27.0 mph)-55.5 kilometers per hour (34.5 mph)[1]

Armament:

Crew:

1 operator[1]

Usage

Year introduced:

2403[1]

In service:

Affiliation:

United Nations Space Command

 

"Like the Cyclops mech suit but bigger and better and badder."
Black-Box[3]

The HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark IX Armor Defense System,[2] commonly known as the Mantis, is a powered exoskeleton/armored fighting vehicle used by the UNSC Marine Corps, UNSC Army, Office of Naval Intelligence, and private security forces[1] after the Human-Covenant War.[4][5] It is derived, if tangentially, from the HRUNTING and YGGDRASIL teams' earlier Mark I Armor Defense System.[2]

Overview[edit]

Design details[edit]

Standing roughly twenty feet tall and weighing over five metric tons,[1] the Mantis is similar in appearance to the larger HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark II (D) Geyrion, which itself was the evolution of another HRUNTING project. Its spindly legs and tiny "thorax" give the Mantis a passing resemblance to its namesake, as do its weaponized arms. Though it lacks the sheer firepower and durability of the M808 Scorpion, the Mantis is far more maneuverable, requires one crew member, and is equipped with regenerating energy shields.[5][6] The Mantis integrates many features seen in the MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor, such as the neural interface link, compact fusion power plant, and shield generator. The Mantis is capable of a maximum speed of 43.5–55.5 kilometers per hour (27–34.5 miles per hour).[1]

Armaments[edit]

There are two primary versions of the Mantis' weapon loadouts, both of which have an anti-matériel machine gun on the right arm and a missile pod on the left. One variant has a larger-caliber cannon and surface-to-air missiles; the other version has an M655 20mm heavy machine gun and M5920 35mm surface-to-surface missiles.[5] The Mantis does not currently feature modular hardpoints that allow armament swapping, though both the UNSC Marine Corps and the Army have contracted Materials Group to produce a refit package to allow alternate loadouts.[1]

Variants[edit]

Similar to the HRUNTING Mark III (B) Cyclops, there are numerous variants of the Mantis that have proven useful for a whole host of varied functions.[7]

  • Corp Mantis: Up-armored model used by the Liang-Dortmund Corporation. Liang-Dortmund occasionally loan their Mantises to local security forces for riot duty and shows of force. Their ammunition is usually replaced with non-lethal alternatives.[8] The corporation also employs non-combat variants that are used in their colony reclamation efforts for terrain navigation to mining operations.[7]
  • Tundra Mantis: Variant designed for use in arctic environments and has more armor than the Corp variant.[8]
  • Woodland Mantis: Variant features a woodland camouflage and more armor than the Corp variant.[8]
  • Urban Mantis: Variant used by the UNSC Army and UNSC Marine Corps that features more armor than the Corp variant.[8]
  • ONI Mantis: Variant used by the Office of Naval Intelligence that features more armor than other variants, multi-environment homing missiles capable of locking on to ground infantry, and better heat sink shrouds for the heavy machine gun .[8]
  • Hannibal Mantis: Variant upgraded by Hannibal Weapon Systems that features a rapid-fire gauss cannon, experimental ion field missile warheads that releases several submunitions, and the ability to EMP other vehicles with a stomp attack. While it doesn't have as heavy armor as the ONI variant it does have a stronger energy shield, at the cost of recharge time.[9]
  • Isabel's Mantis: This variant is a modified version of the basic model for use of the UNSC Spirit of Fire's ground forces, with adjustments to reuse parts produced for the Cyclops and HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark II (J) Colossus. It also lacks the neural interface control systems installed on the basic model, something that was a necessary concession due to the older manufacturing technology on the Spirit of Fire. This variant's default weapon is a chaingun, but it can be replaced with a gauss repeater, the missile capacity can also be upgraded. A shield requisition upgrade can be added to add shields to the Mantis. A target designator can also be added so the Mantis can "paint" a single target to coordinate attacks on using the local battle net, and if a group of Mantis walkers are together they will smart target their designators.[10]
  • Command Mantis: Upgraded variant armed with twin high energy lasers and fitted with an advanced energy shield. Nicknamed Theseus by Jerome-092, his personalized Command Mantis is a mobile command post and linebreaker unit that complements both his augmented physiology and leadership style. It incorporates one of the Spirit of Fire's command-and-control nexus relays, enhancing Jerome's situational awareness of the battlefield and serving as a backup for the UNSC battlenet should the ship be crippled or destroyed.[11]

Operational history[edit]

"Remind me to ask Isabel to add air conditioning."
— A Mantis pilot during the Banished occupation of Installation 00.[12]

The Mantis was created as a result of two parallel exoskeleton programs, HRUNTING and YGGDRASIL, the latter of which encompassed initiatives aimed at incorporating MJOLNIR technologies into UNSC combat vehicles. During the Battle of Meridian between 2548 and 2551, the first prototype of the Mantis engaged in an action known as the "Cherbourg Run" successfully engaging eighteen heavily guarded Type-27 Anti-Aircraft Cannons, which also bore the title of "Mantis". The success of the prototype in the "Cherbourg Run" is one of the theories behind the origin of the moniker of "Mantis".[13] However, the Mantis was only introduced into widespread service after the Covenant War ended.[1][Note 1]

A Mantis during the Battle of Requiem.

After the Human-Covenant War, in early 2553, one Mantis was delivered to Kilo-Five aboard their prowler UNSC Port Stanley.[14]

The Mantis continued to be in use only by select highly classified ONI units and UNSC Infinity,[2] which carried a number of Mantises by 2557. After Infinity was drawn inside the shield world Requiem, Spartan John-117 used a Mantis against Covenant remnant forces besieging the ship. With the Mantis, John cleared out Covenant forces on the ship's hull and jammers blocking the use of the ship's point-defenses. John continued to use the Mantis until he was ordered to reactive the ship's MAC defenses, driving off the Covenant attackers.[4] Several Mantises were used to defend Ivanoff Station.[15] Later that year, Infinity's Spartan-IVs used a version with scaled-down weapons in War Games training.[5]

During the Requiem Campaign, Fireteam Crimson was sent to rescue a squad of Marines trapped behind enemy lines. During the rescue attempt Crimson was met with overwhelming Covenant forces, Commander Sarah Palmer ordered mission handler Robert Dalton to deploy several Mantises to aid Crimson in holding off enemy forces.[16] Several Mantises were used in the defense of Magma Base.[17] During the attack on the Infinity, Lieutenant Murphy brought in a Mantis to support Fireteam Crimson in order to clear a landing zone.[18] Later, when on their way back to activate the Harvester, Crimson used a salvaged Mantis to fight their way out of the Warrens.[19] Two Mantises were later deployed during the Battle of Aktis IV to fend off Covenant troops.[20]

Two Mantises were used by Fireteam Osiris during the Battle of Nuusra on Sanghelios in order to save Arbiter Thel 'Vadam, they were deployed by a Phantom commanded by Shipmaster Mahkee 'Chava on the instructions of Sarah Palmer.[21] During the Battle of Genesis, Osiris used a Mantis in an effort to free Blue Team from Cortana.[22] In April 2559, during the Banished occupation of Installation 00, the crew of the UNSC Spirit of Fire used Mantises against the Banished that had originally been stationed at the Henry Lamb Research Outpost.[10][12]

Gameplay[edit]

Halo 4[edit]

The Mantis has two variants, both in canon and in gameplay. The more powerful model, featured in the campaign and Spartan Ops, is designed to provide the player an almost overwhelming advantage. To promote more balanced competitive play, the Mantis has less firepower in War Games and has anti-surface rather than anti-air missiles. The player may fire all five missiles by holding the left trigger, while tapping the trigger fires only one missile, similar to the Kopasa'mada-pattern plasma launcher in Halo: Reach. The player can stomp the ground with the Mantis' legs by pressing the melee button.[5] The Mantis is also capable of crouching to lower its profile. One major drawback about the Mantis is it has the longest recovery time from being EMP'd. The time spent standing perfectly still is a death sentence in the campaign on higher difficulty levels. The Mantis's energy shields also take a very long time to begin recharging, and even longer for it to reach full shields again.

Halo 5: Guardians[edit]

  • The Mantis in Halo 5: Guardians can no longer fire its missiles one at a time. Instead all five are fired continuously, similar to the M80B missile launcher. In campaign, they are also capable of locking onto multiple enemies at once, both infantry and vehicles. In multiplayer, the missiles can only lock onto aircraft, with the exception of ONI Mantis.
  • Its shields fully recharge in two seconds, where as in Halo 4 they took ten seconds to fully recharge.
  • In the campaign, if the player shoots an enemy with the machine gun, it will lock on to said enemy, allowing the player to shoot homing missiles at it, similar to the ONI Mantis.
    • It also features slightly more armor than the Warzone variant.
  • The vehicular HUD has been reduced to the autocannon's reticle, with no HUD indicators for the missile or shield status.
  • Until the Anvil's Legacy update, the Mantis could be boarded from the front.[23]
  • The Mantis now comes in multiple variants for use in multiplayer.

Halo Wars 2[edit]

In Halo Wars 2, the Mantis is a unique unit accessible to Avery Johnson and Jerome-092, and is also available in Operation: SPEARBREAKER. Johnson's Mantises replace Warthogs, while Jerome has a hero Mantis. During Operation: SPEARBREAKER, Sunray 1-1 is authorized to use Mantises given by Isabel.

Production notes[edit]

During the early concept phase, 343 Industries considered implementing the HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark I powered exoskeleton from the Halo Legends short Prototype. Later concepts derived from this design featured a larger exoskeleton that would cover the wearer's MJOLNIR armor. Designing the Mantis required months of playtesting, much of which involved tweaking the speed of the "stomp" move. One of the biggest concerns was making it clear when a player is reloading the Mantis' weapons; originally, the Mantis held its arms forward as the weapons were reloaded. Due to playtesters' feedback, the animation was changed so that the mech lifts its arms when new ammunition is being fed.[5]

The rear of the Mantis's legs and the back of the metal plate directly under the "thorax" cockpit section sport what appear to be rocket nozzles. These were originally going to allow the Mantis to dodge similar to a Spartan with a M805X thruster pack.[24] Concept art (seen below) showed similar nozzles being attached to the vehicle's "shoulders".

Gallery[edit]

List of appearances[edit]

Notes[edit]

  1. ^ The "Entered Service" field on the Mantis's page on Halo Waypoint claims that the vehicle was introduced in 2403. Descriptions of the Mantis's development history on the very same page as well as the Halo 4 Essential Visual Guide contradict this, the former noting that the Mantis incorporates technologies originally developed for MJOLNIR and the latter stating that the first prototype of the vehicle was fielded late in the war. The "HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark IX" designation also implies that the Mantis was developed on top of a technology lineage that did not exist until well into the 26th century, making it impossible for it to have been developed in 2403.

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p Halo Waypoint, Mantis (Retrieved on Dec 3, 2016) [archive]
  2. ^ a b c d e Halo Waypoint, Halo 4 Interactive Guide - Vehicles: Mantis (Retrieved on May 1, 2013) [local archive] [external archive]
  3. ^ Halo: The Thursday War, page 364
  4. ^ a b Official Xbox Magazine October 2012
  5. ^ a b c d e f The Halo Bulletin 10.17.12
  6. ^ Image showing energy shield flaring
  7. ^ a b Halo Waypoint: Canon Fodder - Greek Squad
  8. ^ a b c d e Halo 5: Guardians
  9. ^ Halo Waypoint: Canon Fodder - Close Quarters
  10. ^ a b Halo Wars 2: Phoenix Logs - Mantis
  11. ^ Halo Waypoint - Community Update: Know-Scope
  12. ^ a b Halo Wars 2
  13. ^ Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 111
  14. ^ Halo: The Thursday War, page 416
  15. ^ Halo 4, campaign level, Composer
  16. ^ Spartan Ops, S1E3 Catherine: Episode 3: Shootout In Valhalla
  17. ^ Spartan Ops, Episode 5, Chapter 4: "The Cauldron Base"
  18. ^ Spartan Ops, S1E7 Invasion: Chapter 1: Backup
  19. ^ Spartan Ops, S1E10 Exodus: Chapter 4: Out the Other
  20. ^ Halo: Escalation, Issue #15
  21. ^ Halo 5: Guardians, campaign level Swords of Sanghelios
  22. ^ Halo 5: Guardians, campaign level Guardians
  23. ^ Halo Waypoint.com, Anvil's Legacy
  24. ^ Halo 4 Beta - Unused Mantis Animations