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{{Ratings}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Era|H1|H2|H3|HW|FOR|TF|FS|GOO|HGN}}
[[File:TFoR AS - Longsword Squadron Delta.jpg|thumb|350px|A squadron of Longswords during [[space warfare]].]]
{{Ship
The '''GA-TL1 Interceptor/Strike Fighter''', or '''Longsword''', is the mainstay multi-mission platform in service with the [[UNSC Air Force]] and [[UNSC Navy]].<ref name="EVG">'''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 112''</ref><ref name="Bulletin">[https://blogs.halowaypoint.com/en-us/blogs/headlines/posts/the-halo-bulletin-9-24-14 '''Halo Waypoint''' - The Halo Bulletin: 9.24.14]</ref> Longswords are capable of atmospheric and exoatmospheric (A/X) operation and can be fitted for myriad roles simultaneously. Among those roles, Longswords most often operate as fleet defense fighters, orbital defense and deep space interceptors, or as strike fighters, among other, more specialized tasks.{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}
|image=[[Image:Longsword Fighter.jpg|300px]]  
|name=Longsword Interceptor
|manufacturer= UNSC
|line=
|model=C709 ''Longsword''-Class Interceptor
|class=Star Fighter/Bomber/interceptor
|length=64 meters (210 feet)
|width=75 meters (245.9 feet)
|height=12.9 meters (42.3 feet)
|mass=
|max accel=
|max speed space=Faster then any other small human ship
|max speed air=
|engine=
|slipspace drive=Yes (optional)
|slipspace speed=
|poweroutput=
|power=
|shield gen=None
|hull=
|sensor=
|target=
|navigation=
|avionics=
|countermeasures= AA guns
|Engines=
|armament=''Varies''
*110mm rotary guns
*120mm guns
**Fire Arc: Ventral
*[[ASGM-10 Missiles]] (4)
*[[Shiva-class nuclear warhead]] (1) Optional
*[[Moray Space Mines]] System (36) (optional)
*[[Scorpion Missiles]]
|complement=none
|crew=2 personnel
*Pilot (1)
*Co-Pilot (1)
|skeleton=1
|passengers=Yes, but not advisable
|capacity=
|consumables=1 weeks provisions for crew
|othersystems=Cryo chambers(optional)
|firstuse=Some time before the Fall of [[Reach]]
|role=*Starfighter
*Interceptor
*Bomber
|era= Human/Covenant War
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
}}
The '''C709 ''Longsword''-Class Interceptor''' is the main [[UNSC]] single-ship, filling a variety of roles simultaneously.  


==Role==
==Overview==
The Longsword was primarily used by the UNSC as a Space Interceptor, projected to destroy enemy fighters, but also possessed the armor and firepower to attack capital ships. Due to the Human-Covenant war however, the Longsword seems to have been forced into a much wider variety of roles. It has been seen as a space superiority fighter<ref>[[Halo 2]], [[Cairo (Level)]]</ref> (theoretically a different function altogether) and as a fighter-bomber in-atmosphere<ref>[[Halo 2 E3 Demo]]</ref><ref>[[Halo 3]], [[The Storm (Level)]]</ref>.
===Design details===
[[File:HWF longsword.jpg|thumb|left|250px|The various ordnance carried by a C712 Longsword.{{Ref/Book|Id=warfleet|[[Halo: Warfleet]]|Section=Armaments|Page=16-17}}]]
The GA-TL1 Longsword is designed primarily as a fighter, though it can also be used for interception, suppression, bombing, or direct attack.{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}} There are a number of variants of the craft, with some variants measuring 64 meters (210 feet) long and 75 meters (246 feet) wide.{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}<ref name="enc">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition)]]''' ''(2009)'', ''page 251''</ref><br> Their crew sizes can vary between two and four individuals; the crew may be assisted by an onboard [[artificial intelligence]].


==Structure==
While there are several noticeable external and presumably internal differences among variants, all Longswords share a common overall architecture. Most Longswords feature a wide, manta ray-like design with a rear-facing boom apparatus protruding from the center of the fuselage. The exhaust ports for the Longsword's twin fusion engines are also visible at the rear of the fuselage.{{Ref/Reuse|enc}} The newer [[C718 Longsword]] differs in a few key areas. It shares the same general arrow-shaped fuselage, but with more stubby wings. The C718 also does away with the tail-like boom and incorporates four more engines than the [[C709 Longsword|C709]] and [[C712 Longsword|C712]] variants.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22P160}}
In [[Halo: Combat Evolved]], the inside of the ship presents a small corridor leading to the rear, a stair, and a higher corridor to the cockpit. In the two corridors, there are several equipment lockers, along with two secondary crew stations. The cockpit consists of two pilot chairs and two more auxiliary crew stations. With a known total crew complement of four, along with the equipment lockers, the ship presents itself as less of a fighter-bomber and more of a dedicated bomber and Close Support craft.


If one were to construct a life-size longsword, its wingspan would be 5 meters longer than a Boeing 747, while it's fuselage would be 6 meters shorter, making Longswords considerably larger than today's fighter aircraft, closer in size to bombers instead and also similar to the B2 Stealth Bomber.
The Longsword can be remotely piloted, as was performed during the [[Battle of Chi Ceti]] in [[2525]].{{Ref/Reuse|remote}} The [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Aviator]] helmet is recommended for use by [[Spartan Operations|Spartans]] acting as Longsword crew members.{{Ref/Book|[[Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide]]|Page=147}}


==Propulsion==
===Armament===
There are four main engines discernible on a Longsword fighter. Their precise nature is not known, but they are able to function in space and they are strong enough to reach [[Earth]]'s and [[Installation 04]]'s escape velocity. The propulsion system must be highly efficient (in terms of seconds), as it can reach orbital velocity without the massive tanks that modern spacecraft possess. Some form of advanced electric propulsion is likely. There are also multiple RCS points for maneuvering.
The standard armament of the GA-TL1 Longsword is the [[M9109 ASW/AC MLA|M9109 50mm cannon]].{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}<ref>'''Halo: Reach''' manual</ref> Some variants are armed with [[110mm rotary cannon]]s<ref name="FS28">'''Halo: First Strike''', ''page 28''</ref> or a turreted [[120mm ventral gun]] that can be retracted into the hull,<ref>'''Halo: First Strike''', ''page 58''</ref> though the latter is likely a secondary weapon. The Longsword can also accommodate any of several supplementary weapon systems, including four [[ASGM-10 missile]]s{{Ref/Novel|Id=SOR13|HSOR|Chapter=13}} or [[ASGM-15 missile]]s,{{Ref/Novel|Id=SOR19|HSOR|Chapter=19}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22P160}} a variety of bombs including laser-guided [[M888 Octadart bomb]]s,{{Ref/Reuse|SOR19}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P160|Enc22|Page=160}} [[M1011 Moray space mine]]s, or even a single {{Class|Shiva|nuclear missile}};{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22P160}} when remotely piloted, the Longsword itself can be used as a delivery system for the ''Shiva'' warhead.<ref name="remote">'''Halo: The Fall of Reach''', ''pages 322-324''</ref> As well as Shiva nuclear missiles, Longswords are capable of deploying [[HAVOK tactical nuclear weapon]]s.{{Ref/Reuse|Escalation12}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22P160}} Longswords are also capable of dropping and deploying certain variants of [[ordnance pod]]s to resupply troops on the ground.{{Ref/Game|[[Halo: Reach]]|[[Firefight]]}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22P160}}


While escaping from [[Alpha Halo]], the [[Master Chief]]'s Longsword displayed a vertical-takeoff-and-landing (VTOL) capability, accelerating extremely quickly to atmospheric escape velocity.
==Variants==
There are multiple variants of the GA-TL1 Longsword that are designed to perform specific functions, such as the C708, the C709, and the C712.<ref name="HCEALibrary">'''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''', [[Library (feature)|Library]]</ref> However, these variations are not static; Longswords can be modified on a craft-by-craft basis to fit the needs of a given mission.{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}


==Weapons==
*'''[[C708 Longsword]]''' - A variant of the Longsword.{{Ref/Reuse|HCEALibrary}}
The Longsword's main weapons are [[110mm rotary cannons]], as well as 120mm ventral guns, for dogfighting in space. This versatile fighter can be armed with an assortment of secondary weapons including [[ASGM-10 Missiles]], bombs, [[Moray Space Mines]], and even a single [[Shiva nuclear Warhead]]. The Longsword is usually deployed against [[Seraph]] fighters in space combat and [[Covenant]] artillery in planetary combat. It also may escort [[Pelicans]] as they head for the surface of a planet. It has also been rigged as an remote piloted, carrying a single [[Shiva]] nuclear warhead, destroying the enemy ship and itself as well when the opportunity arises<ref>[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]</ref>.
*'''[[C709 Longsword]]''' - Designed to apply force in exoatmospheric engagements. It is armed with a 110mm rotary cannon.{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}} Despite its focus on exoatmospheric combat, the C709 features large air intakes and a non-polarized canopy.<ref name="CE">'''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'''</ref><ref name="H2">'''[[Halo 2]]'''</ref>
*'''[[C712 Longsword]]''' - Designated [[Hull classification symbol|SS-110]] by the [[UNSC Air Force]],<ref>'''Halo: Warfleet''' ''page 17''</ref> specialized in short-range atmospheric/exoatmospheric (A/X) strike runs. It can carry an assortment of missile and mine delivery systems. The C712 features a large, polarized canopy and integrated air intakes.{{Ref/Reuse|Origins}}<ref name="H3">'''[[Halo 3]]'''</ref><ref name="Reach">'''[[Halo: Reach]]'''</ref>
*'''[[C718 Longsword]]''' - Introduced following the [[The Reclamation|rise]] of the [[Created]] in late 2558. It carries a particularly lethal arsenal and also incorporates advanced stealth technologies.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22P160}}{{Ref/Site|Id=CFMasterClass|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/master-class|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Canon Fodder - Master Class|D=12|M=7|Y=2021}}
<gallery class=center>
File:Enc22 SoTP C709Longsword.png|A [[C709 Longsword]].
File:H2A_-_Longsword_model.jpg|A [[C712 Longsword]].
File:Enc22 C718LongswordFront.png|A [[C718 Longsword]].
</gallery>
 
==Ships of the line==
*''[[Knife 26]]'' – Stationed aboard the {{UNSCShip|Pillar of Autumn}}, presumably destroyed during the [[Fall of Reach]].
;C712 Longswords
*[[Longsword 91-002]] – Crash-landed on a [[Halo Array|Halo installation]].
 
==Service history==
===Origin and early service===
[[File:H3 E3 Longsword 3.jpg|thumb|250px|Three Longswords assaulting the [[Forerunner Dreadnought]] in the [[Battle of Voi]].{{Ref/Reuse|storm}}]]
The Longsword, manufactured by [[Misriah Armory]], was designed during the 25th century by [[Gov Aukland]] and [[Thomas Levesque]], whose names inspired the GA-TL1 designation.{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}} Longswords saw service during the [[Insurrection]].<ref name="Origins">'''Halo Legends''', ''Origins''</ref>
 
===Human-Covenant War===
Later, Longswords were deployed on the front lines of nearly every major engagement of the [[Human-Covenant War]] under the [[UNSC Navy]].{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}} [[Longsword Squadron Delta]], assigned to the frigate {{UNSCShip|Commonwealth}}, engaged [[Covenant]] forces during the [[Battle of Chi Ceti]]. The Longswords were destroyed when the ''Commonwealth'' was forced to sacrifice them to get a shot on the ''[[Unrelenting]]'' with a ''Shiva''-class nuclear missile. The Longswords that survived the firefight were destroyed when the nuclear weapon detonated.<ref>'''Halo: The Fall of Reach''' ''(2001)'', ''pages 112-113''</ref>
 
The C712 Longsword variant saw heavy use during the [[Fall of Reach]].{{Ref/Game|HR|[[campaign]]}} Later in the battle, the {{Class|Halcyon|light cruiser}} {{UNSCShip|Pillar of Autumn}} launched a remotely piloted Longsword equipped with a ''Shiva''-class nuclear missile during a battle with an {{Pattern|Kewu|battleship}}. After the ship's shields were taken down, the "smart" AI [[Cortana]] crash-landed the Longsword on the ship. The nuke's detonation destroyed the Covenant vessel.{{Ref/Novel|Halo: The Fall of Reach}}
 
Famously, the C709 Longsword was used by [[John-117]] to escape the destruction of the UNSC ''Pillar of Autumn'' and [[Installation 04]] during the [[Battle of Installation 04]].{{Ref/Game|HCE|campaign}}
 
During the [[Battle of Voi]], numerous C712 Longswords aided a number of frigates in attacking the [[Prophet of Truth]]'s [[Anodyne Spirit|ship]], once John-117 cleared the way by destroying an [[Skar'wa-pattern Mantis|anti-aircraft battery]]. However, the attack proved unsuccessful and [[Truth's fleet]] was able to evacuate through the [[Portal at Voi]] which they opened moments after the failed attack.{{Ref/Level|Id=storm|Halo 3|[[The Storm]]}} Longswords subsequently took part in the [[Battle of Installation 00]] after the [[Fleet of Retribution]] and the [[Seventh Fleet]] followed Truth through the portal to prevent the firing of the [[Halo Array]]. At least one was shot down during the battle and crashed on the Ark which was witnessed by the ground team led by John-117.{{Ref/Level|[[Halo 3]]|[[The Ark (level)|The Ark]]}}
 
===Post-war===
On [[2557#July|July 26, 2557]], Spartan [[Blue Team]] used a Longsword to reach Halo [[Installation 03]].<ref>'''Halo: Escalation''', ''Issue 8''</ref> On [[2558#March|March 11, 2558]], several Longswords defended {{UNSCShip|Infinity}} when she was attacked by [[New Colonial Alliance|insurgent]] aerospace craft after the freighter ''[[Pilgrims' Pride]]'' was pulled into ''Infinity's'' primary docking bay.<ref name="HE4">'''Halo: Escalation''' - ''Issue #4''</ref>
 
During [[Operation: WHISTLE STOP]] on May 8, 2558, ''Infinity'' deployed three Longswords to escort two [[D77H-TCI Pelican]]s to rescue Spartans [[Naiya Ray]] and [[Gabriel Thorne]] from the [[pirate]]s inhabiting the [[Ven III|planet]]. One of the fighters deployed [[HAVOK tactical nuclear weapon]]s, destroying the pirate base.<ref name="Escalation12">'''[[Halo: Escalation]]''', ''[[Halo: Escalation Issue 12|Issue #12]]''</ref> At least one Longsword was deployed during the [[Battle of Oban]] on July 16, where it destroyed two Covenant [[Phantom]] dropships.<ref>'''Halo: Escalation''', ''[[Halo: Escalation Issue 13|Issue #13]]''</ref> A few days later, three Longswords from ''Infinity'' escorted two [[D79-TC Pelican]]s to the surface of [[Aktis IV]] during a [[Battle of Aktis IV|battle on the planet]].<ref>'''Halo: Escalation''', ''[[Halo: Escalation Issue 14|Issue #14]]''</ref>
 
The C718 Longsword entered service within the UNSC in response to [[The Reclamation|the events]] of late 2558, incorporating decades of research and captured alien technology. A first within the GA-TL1 Longsword family, the C718 also includes cutting-edge stealth technology.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22P160}}
 
In [[2559#October|October 2559]], several of the ''Infinity''{{'}}s Longswords took part in [[Operation: WOLFE]], fighting against [[Escharum]]'s [[intrusion corvette]] and the forces that it unleashed.{{Ref/Novel|SoR}}
 
==Gameplay==
===''Halo: Fleet Battles''===
====UNSC Longsword Bomber Flights====
*Flight slots: 1
*Movement: 16"
*Damage track: 2
*Systems loadout: None
*Weapons: vs. wing targets
**Range: Contact
**Dice: 1
*Weapons: vs. element targets
**Range: Contact
**Dice: 2
 
==Non-canon and dubious canon appearances==
[[File:HTV-Unbound-Longswords.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Soren-066 heads to steal a Longsword.]]
===Silver Timeline===
{{Main|Silver Timeline}}
In [[2530]], [[Soren-066/Silver|Soren-066]] would steal a Longsword in an effort to flee the [[SPARTAN-II program/Silver|SPARTAN-II program]].{{Ref/Film|Id=Unbound|TV|Episode=Unbound}}
{{clear}}


==Trivia==
==Trivia==
*The [[Master Chief]] uses a Longsword to escape [[Alpha Halo]] at the end of Combat Evolved.
*Like the [[FSS-1000 Sabre]], the [[S-14 Baselard]], the [[F-41 Broadsword]], and the [[B-65 Shortsword]], the Longsword is named after a [[Wikipedia:Longsword|bladed weapon]].
*Using saved films in [[Halo 3]], [[Halo]] fans can get pictures of the Longsword in the levels "[[The Ark]]" (when the Longsword flies by when the Chief finds the crashed Pelican and some marines) and in the level "[[The Storm]]" (when the Longsword is shot down by the [[Covenant]] AA gun). Although on [[The Storm (Level)|The Storm]], you won't be able to get a picture of the crash, since the Longsword disappears when it's out of the players view.  
*The C709's cabin is nearly as long as that of an [[Wikipedia:Airbus A320|Airbus A320]], a commercial airliner.<ref>[http://carnage.bungie.org/haloforum/halo.forum.pl?read=1069623 '''halo.bungie.org''': ''Updated Halo vehicle scales + vs real life" - Bry'']</ref>
*In [[Halo: Custom Edition]] there are several mods that allow the player to pilot a Longsword. All mods include a large armament of [[Scorpion]] anti-tank missiles that reloads once used up. It is given the physics of the [[Pelican]] Dropship from [[Halo: Combat Evolved]]. However it goes significantly faster then a Pelican, and therefore has a wider turning radius. While hovering, the Jump key will make the Longsword ascend, and the crouch key will make it descend.
*The SS-110's featured in ''Halo: Reach'' are only half as large as their original ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' appearance, likely because they are meant to be seen only from a great distance and for a short period of time. The craft seen on the multiplayer map "[[Tempest]]" is, like the crashed Pelican on the map "[[Highlands]]", too small to accommodate a single Spartan.<ref>[http://carnage.bungie.org/haloforum/halo.forum.pl?read=1069666 '''halo.bungie.org''': ''Re: Updated Halo vehicles scale vs. real life" - Stephen Loftus'']</ref>
*In [[The Maw]], [[Master Chief]] pilots the Longsword on the right side, but the mods have the pilot in the left seat.
*It is disputed whether the longsword is black or grey. It looks grey in the final level of [[Halo: CE]] ([[The Maw]]), but when it is seen in space it looks blacker. This may be due to lighting.  
*A Longsword is constantly referred to as a Pelican in [[Halo: First Strike]], one of several slips in the book.
*Longswords appear on [[The Storm]] and [[The Ark]]. They fight space and in-atmosphere battles, along with fighting above the [[Ark]].


==Known Longswords==
==Gallery==
*[[7-89]]
{{Linkbox|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of Longswords}}
*[[Knife 26]]
 
==Images==
<gallery>
<gallery>
image:Longsword-Specs.jpg|Longsword specs
File:HCE Longsword Concept.jpg|Concept art of the Longsword for ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
Image:LongswordBattle2.jpg|Longswords at the [[First Battle of Earth]]
File:H2-LongswordFighter-Views.png|Dorsal and ventral view renders of the Longsword from ''Halo 2''.
Image:H3_E3_Longsword_3.jpg|Three Longswords in the [[Second Battle of Earth]]
File:H3-GATL1LongswordFighterSide.png|A side preview of the GATL1 Longsword Fighter in ''[[Halo 3]]''.
Image:Longsword Fighter.jpg|A Longsword group in formation near Installation 04's atmosphere
File:H3-GATL1LongswordFighter.png|An angled preview of the GATL1 Longsword Fighter-Interceptor in ''Halo 3''.
Image:H3 E3 Shootdown.jpg|A Longsword being neutralized by a Loyalist Anti-Air Artillery
File:Longsword7.jpg|A Longsword crashing on [[Installation 00]].
Image:Longsword.jpg|A Formation of Longswords.
File:Ark longsword crash.jpg|The wreckage of a crashed Longsword on Installation 00
Image:20668469-Full.jpg
File:Longsword down.jpg|A frontal view of the C712 Longsword.
File:Voilongsword.jpg|An angled view of the Longsword (notice the 7-89 tag on it).
File:H3 E3 Shootdown.jpg|A Longsword being shot by a Covenant {{Pattern|Skar'wa|Mantis}}.
File:HaloLegends-Origins-Longswords.png|A squadron of Longswords bombing a city in ''[[Halo Legends]]: [[Origins]]''.
File:Longsword Escalation 4.png|A group of Longswords defending the {{UNSCShip|Infinity}} in ''[[Halo: Escalation]] #4''.
File:Escalation - GammaHalo Longsword.png|A Longsword being used by Blue Team in ''Halo: Escalation #8''.
File:H2A - Longswords bomb carrier.jpg|A pair of Longswords bomb [[Day of Jubilation|an assault carrier]] ahead of the Master Chief's attack during the Battle for Earth in ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''.
File:HTFORAS_Longsword_Turnaround.jpg|Turnaround of the Longsword fighter in ''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach - The Animated Series]]''.
File:Waypoint Chief MemorialDay2018.png|Longswords in the 2018 Memorial Day art.
File:HINF - Emblem icon - Longsword Streak.png|The Longsword Streak emblem in ''[[Halo Infinite]]''.
</gallery>
</gallery>


== Related links ==
==List of appearances==
*[[Seraph-class Starfighter|Seraph]] - The Covenant equivalent of the Longsword
{{Col-begin}}
*[[SkyHawk]] - the UNSC's dedicated atmospheric strike fighter.
{{Col-2}}
*[[Tarasque-class heavy fighter]] - presumably a similar Covenant fighter
*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''
*''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
*''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
*''[[Halo 2]]''
*''[[Halo 3]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
**''[[Origins]]''
*''[[Halo: Evolutions]]''
**''[[Pariah]]''
*''[[Halo: Reach]]''
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''
*''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
**''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminals]]
{{Col-2}}
*''[[Halo: Fleet Battles]]''
*''[[Halo: Last Light]]''
*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach - The Animated Series]]''
*''[[Halo: Shadow of Intent]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Ground Command]]''
*''[[Halo Mythos: A Guide to the Story of Halo]]''
*''[[Halo: Retribution]]''
*''[[Halo: Collateral Damage]]''
*''[[Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual]]''
*''[[Halo: Outpost Discovery]]''
*''[[Halo: Shadows of Reach]]''
*''[[Halo Infinite]]'' {{C|Poster and emblem only}}
*''[[Halo: The Television Series]]''
**''[[Unbound]]''
**''[[Solace (TV Series)|Solace]]''
*''[[Halo: The Television Series Season Two]]''
**''[[Halo (TV Series)|Halo]]''
*''[[Halo: The Rubicon Protocol]]''
{{Col-end}}
 
==Sources==
{{Ref/Sources|2}}


==External Links==
{{Human aircraft}}
*[http://nikon.bungie.org/misc/sloftus_longswordtour/ A Tour of the Longsword Interceptor]
{{Human Ships}}


{{UNSC Vehicles}}
[[Category:Space fighter classes]]
{{UNSC Ships}}
[[Category:Longsword variants| ]]
[[Category:UNSC]]
[[Category:Single Ships]]
[[fr:C709 la Longsword-classe Starfighter]]

Latest revision as of 00:57, September 1, 2024

Halo: The Fall of Reach - The Animated Series screenshot
A squadron of Longswords during space warfare.

The GA-TL1 Interceptor/Strike Fighter, or Longsword, is the mainstay multi-mission platform in service with the UNSC Air Force and UNSC Navy.[1][2] Longswords are capable of atmospheric and exoatmospheric (A/X) operation and can be fitted for myriad roles simultaneously. Among those roles, Longswords most often operate as fleet defense fighters, orbital defense and deep space interceptors, or as strike fighters, among other, more specialized tasks.[1]

Overview[edit]

Design details[edit]

The various ordnance carried by a C712 Longsword.[3]

The GA-TL1 Longsword is designed primarily as a fighter, though it can also be used for interception, suppression, bombing, or direct attack.[1] There are a number of variants of the craft, with some variants measuring 64 meters (210 feet) long and 75 meters (246 feet) wide.[1][4]
Their crew sizes can vary between two and four individuals; the crew may be assisted by an onboard artificial intelligence.

While there are several noticeable external and presumably internal differences among variants, all Longswords share a common overall architecture. Most Longswords feature a wide, manta ray-like design with a rear-facing boom apparatus protruding from the center of the fuselage. The exhaust ports for the Longsword's twin fusion engines are also visible at the rear of the fuselage.[4] The newer C718 Longsword differs in a few key areas. It shares the same general arrow-shaped fuselage, but with more stubby wings. The C718 also does away with the tail-like boom and incorporates four more engines than the C709 and C712 variants.[5]

The Longsword can be remotely piloted, as was performed during the Battle of Chi Ceti in 2525.[6] The MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Aviator helmet is recommended for use by Spartans acting as Longsword crew members.[7]

Armament[edit]

The standard armament of the GA-TL1 Longsword is the M9109 50mm cannon.[1][8] Some variants are armed with 110mm rotary cannons[9] or a turreted 120mm ventral gun that can be retracted into the hull,[10] though the latter is likely a secondary weapon. The Longsword can also accommodate any of several supplementary weapon systems, including four ASGM-10 missiles[11] or ASGM-15 missiles,[12][5] a variety of bombs including laser-guided M888 Octadart bombs,[12][5] M1011 Moray space mines, or even a single Shiva-class nuclear missile;[5] when remotely piloted, the Longsword itself can be used as a delivery system for the Shiva warhead.[6] As well as Shiva nuclear missiles, Longswords are capable of deploying HAVOK tactical nuclear weapons.[13][5] Longswords are also capable of dropping and deploying certain variants of ordnance pods to resupply troops on the ground.[14][5]

Variants[edit]

There are multiple variants of the GA-TL1 Longsword that are designed to perform specific functions, such as the C708, the C709, and the C712.[15] However, these variations are not static; Longswords can be modified on a craft-by-craft basis to fit the needs of a given mission.[1]

  • C708 Longsword - A variant of the Longsword.[15]
  • C709 Longsword - Designed to apply force in exoatmospheric engagements. It is armed with a 110mm rotary cannon.[1] Despite its focus on exoatmospheric combat, the C709 features large air intakes and a non-polarized canopy.[16][17]
  • C712 Longsword - Designated SS-110 by the UNSC Air Force,[18] specialized in short-range atmospheric/exoatmospheric (A/X) strike runs. It can carry an assortment of missile and mine delivery systems. The C712 features a large, polarized canopy and integrated air intakes.[19][20][21]
  • C718 Longsword - Introduced following the rise of the Created in late 2558. It carries a particularly lethal arsenal and also incorporates advanced stealth technologies.[5][22]

Ships of the line[edit]

C712 Longswords

Service history[edit]

Origin and early service[edit]

Three Longswords assaulting the Forerunner Dreadnought in the Battle of Voi.[23]

The Longsword, manufactured by Misriah Armory, was designed during the 25th century by Gov Aukland and Thomas Levesque, whose names inspired the GA-TL1 designation.[1] Longswords saw service during the Insurrection.[19]

Human-Covenant War[edit]

Later, Longswords were deployed on the front lines of nearly every major engagement of the Human-Covenant War under the UNSC Navy.[1] Longsword Squadron Delta, assigned to the frigate UNSC Commonwealth, engaged Covenant forces during the Battle of Chi Ceti. The Longswords were destroyed when the Commonwealth was forced to sacrifice them to get a shot on the Unrelenting with a Shiva-class nuclear missile. The Longswords that survived the firefight were destroyed when the nuclear weapon detonated.[24]

The C712 Longsword variant saw heavy use during the Fall of Reach.[25] Later in the battle, the Halcyon-class light cruiser UNSC Pillar of Autumn launched a remotely piloted Longsword equipped with a Shiva-class nuclear missile during a battle with an Kewu-pattern battleship. After the ship's shields were taken down, the "smart" AI Cortana crash-landed the Longsword on the ship. The nuke's detonation destroyed the Covenant vessel.[26]

Famously, the C709 Longsword was used by John-117 to escape the destruction of the UNSC Pillar of Autumn and Installation 04 during the Battle of Installation 04.[27]

During the Battle of Voi, numerous C712 Longswords aided a number of frigates in attacking the Prophet of Truth's ship, once John-117 cleared the way by destroying an anti-aircraft battery. However, the attack proved unsuccessful and Truth's fleet was able to evacuate through the Portal at Voi which they opened moments after the failed attack.[23] Longswords subsequently took part in the Battle of Installation 00 after the Fleet of Retribution and the Seventh Fleet followed Truth through the portal to prevent the firing of the Halo Array. At least one was shot down during the battle and crashed on the Ark which was witnessed by the ground team led by John-117.[28]

Post-war[edit]

On July 26, 2557, Spartan Blue Team used a Longsword to reach Halo Installation 03.[29] On March 11, 2558, several Longswords defended UNSC Infinity when she was attacked by insurgent aerospace craft after the freighter Pilgrims' Pride was pulled into Infinity's primary docking bay.[30]

During Operation: WHISTLE STOP on May 8, 2558, Infinity deployed three Longswords to escort two D77H-TCI Pelicans to rescue Spartans Naiya Ray and Gabriel Thorne from the pirates inhabiting the planet. One of the fighters deployed HAVOK tactical nuclear weapons, destroying the pirate base.[13] At least one Longsword was deployed during the Battle of Oban on July 16, where it destroyed two Covenant Phantom dropships.[31] A few days later, three Longswords from Infinity escorted two D79-TC Pelicans to the surface of Aktis IV during a battle on the planet.[32]

The C718 Longsword entered service within the UNSC in response to the events of late 2558, incorporating decades of research and captured alien technology. A first within the GA-TL1 Longsword family, the C718 also includes cutting-edge stealth technology.[5]

In October 2559, several of the Infinity's Longswords took part in Operation: WOLFE, fighting against Escharum's intrusion corvette and the forces that it unleashed.[33]

Gameplay[edit]

Halo: Fleet Battles[edit]

UNSC Longsword Bomber Flights[edit]

  • Flight slots: 1
  • Movement: 16"
  • Damage track: 2
  • Systems loadout: None
  • Weapons: vs. wing targets
    • Range: Contact
    • Dice: 1
  • Weapons: vs. element targets
    • Range: Contact
    • Dice: 2

Non-canon and dubious canon appearances[edit]

Soren ditching
Soren-066 heads to steal a Longsword.

Silver Timeline[edit]

Main article: Silver Timeline

In 2530, Soren-066 would steal a Longsword in an effort to flee the SPARTAN-II program.[34]

Trivia[edit]

  • Like the FSS-1000 Sabre, the S-14 Baselard, the F-41 Broadsword, and the B-65 Shortsword, the Longsword is named after a bladed weapon.
  • The C709's cabin is nearly as long as that of an Airbus A320, a commercial airliner.[35]
  • The SS-110's featured in Halo: Reach are only half as large as their original Halo: Combat Evolved appearance, likely because they are meant to be seen only from a great distance and for a short period of time. The craft seen on the multiplayer map "Tempest" is, like the crashed Pelican on the map "Highlands", too small to accommodate a single Spartan.[36]

Gallery[edit]

Main-Superintendent.png Browse more images in this article's gallery page.
  • Concept art of the Longsword for Halo: Combat Evolved.

    Concept art of the Longsword for Halo: Combat Evolved.

  • Dorsal and ventral view renders of the Longsword from Halo 2.

    Dorsal and ventral view renders of the Longsword from Halo 2.

  • A side preview of the GATL1 Longsword Fighter in Halo 3.

    A side preview of the GATL1 Longsword Fighter in Halo 3.

  • An angled preview of the GATL1 Longsword Fighter-Interceptor in Halo 3.

    An angled preview of the GATL1 Longsword Fighter-Interceptor in Halo 3.

  • A Longsword crashing on Installation 00.

    A Longsword crashing on Installation 00.

  • The wreckage of a crashed Longsword on Installation 00

    The wreckage of a crashed Longsword on Installation 00

  • A frontal view of the C712 Longsword.

    A frontal view of the C712 Longsword.

  • An angled view of the Longsword (notice the 7-89 tag on it).

    An angled view of the Longsword (notice the 7-89 tag on it).

  • A Longsword being shot by a Covenant Skar'wa-pattern Mantis.

    A Longsword being shot by a Covenant Skar'wa-pattern Mantis.

  • A squadron of Longswords bombing a city in Halo Legends: Origins.

    A squadron of Longswords bombing a city in Halo Legends: Origins.

  • A group of Longswords defending the UNSC Infinity in Halo: Escalation #4.

    A group of Longswords defending the UNSC Infinity in Halo: Escalation #4.

  • A Longsword being used by Blue Team in Halo: Escalation #8.

    A Longsword being used by Blue Team in Halo: Escalation #8.

  • A pair of Longswords bomb an assault carrier ahead of the Master Chief's attack during the Battle for Earth in Halo 2: Anniversary.

    A pair of Longswords bomb an assault carrier ahead of the Master Chief's attack during the Battle for Earth in Halo 2: Anniversary.

  • Turnaround of the Longsword fighter in Halo: The Fall of Reach - The Animated Series.

    Turnaround of the Longsword fighter in Halo: The Fall of Reach - The Animated Series.

  • Longswords in the 2018 Memorial Day art.

    Longswords in the 2018 Memorial Day art.

  • The Longsword Streak emblem in Halo Infinite.

    The Longsword Streak emblem in Halo Infinite.

List of appearances[edit]

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 112
  2. ^ Halo Waypoint - The Halo Bulletin: 9.24.14
  3. ^ Halo: Warfleet - Armaments, page 16-17
  4. ^ a b Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition) (2009), page 251
  5. ^ a b c d e f g h Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 160
  6. ^ a b Halo: The Fall of Reach, pages 322-324
  7. ^ Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 147
  8. ^ Halo: Reach manual
  9. ^ Halo: First Strike, page 28
  10. ^ Halo: First Strike, page 58
  11. ^ Halo: Shadows of Reach, chapter 13
  12. ^ a b Halo: Shadows of Reach, chapter 19
  13. ^ a b Halo: Escalation, Issue #12
  14. ^ Halo: Reach, Firefight
  15. ^ a b Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, Library
  16. ^ Halo: Combat Evolved
  17. ^ Halo 2
  18. ^ Halo: Warfleet page 17
  19. ^ a b Halo Legends, Origins
  20. ^ Halo 3
  21. ^ Halo: Reach
  22. ^ Halo Waypoint, Canon Fodder - Master Class (Retrieved on Jul 12, 2021) [archive]
  23. ^ a b Halo 3, campaign level The Storm
  24. ^ Halo: The Fall of Reach (2001), pages 112-113
  25. ^ Halo: Reach, campaign
  26. ^ Halo: The Fall of Reach
  27. ^ Halo: Combat Evolved, campaign
  28. ^ Halo 3, campaign level The Ark
  29. ^ Halo: Escalation, Issue 8
  30. ^ Halo: Escalation - Issue #4
  31. ^ Halo: Escalation, Issue #13
  32. ^ Halo: Escalation, Issue #14
  33. ^ Halo: Shadows of Reach
  34. ^ Halo: The Television Series, episode Unbound
  35. ^ halo.bungie.org: Updated Halo vehicle scales + vs real life" - Bry
  36. ^ halo.bungie.org: Re: Updated Halo vehicles scale vs. real life" - Stephen Loftus

v • d • e
 
Human aerospace craft
Ground-support craft
Bombers
Strategic bomber B-65 Shortsword
Bomber/Interceptors GA-TL1 Longsword (C708 • C709 • C712 • C718)
Troop transports Pelican (D75 • D77 • D78 • D79 • Other variants) • D102 Owl • SLEIPNIR
Logistical transports Condor (D80 • D81 • Other variants) • D20 Heron • D82 Darter • D96 Albatross
Stealth and reconnaissance D75/r Pelican • D102 Owl • Subprowler (Black Cat-class • Chiroptera-class • U81 Condor) • Turaco
Shuttlecraft
Lifeboat classes (Class-3 • Class-5) • Command shuttle • RLT-85 Emergency Shuttlepod • SKT-series (SKT-9 • SKT-13 • SKT-21 • SKT-29) • Lacewing-II • Queen Bee • Shuttle pod
Human Entry Vehicle (HEV) M7650 • M8823
SOIEV M8900 • M9407
Other Equipment pod • Long Range Stealth • Escape pod
Other

v • d • e
 
Human ship classifications
Stealth craft
Heavy frigates Paris-class • Strident-class
Light frigates Anlace-class • Charon-class • Mulsanne-class • Stalwart-class
Heavy destroyers Able-class • Hillsborough-class
Light destroyers Diligence-class • Halberd-class • Unidentified
Heavy cruisers Autumn-class • Marathon-class • Valiant-class
Light cruisers Halcyon-class
Unclassified
By human faction: UEG (UNSC • CAA) • Insurrectionist
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