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{{Ratings}}
{{Title|''Zurdo''-pattern Wraith}}
{{Era|H1|H2|H3|HW|TF|FS}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Ship
{{Center|Type-26 Wraith redirects here. For other types of Wraith, see [[Wraith]].}}
|image=[[Image:Wraith view.jpg|300px]]
{{Vehicle infobox
|name=Wraith
|image=[[File:H3-T26WraithAGC.png|250px]]
|manufacturer=
|name=''Zurdo''-pattern Mortar Tank
|manufacturer=*[[Assembly Forges]] {{C|pre-[[Great Schism]]}}{{Ref/Book|Id=evg|EVG|Page=206}}
*[[Lodam Armory]] {{C|post-Great Schism}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=275}}{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}}
|line=
|line=
|model=Type-25 Assault Gun Carriage
|model=''Zurdo''-pattern
|class=Mobile Artillery
|cost=
|length=8.70 meters (28.6 feet)
|length={{Convert|8.8|m|ft|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|evg}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc09|Enc09|Page=247}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc11|Enc11|Page=257}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|width=
|width={{Convert|9.2|m|ft}}{{Ref/Reuse|evg}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|height=
|height={{Convert|3.7|m|ft}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|mass= 65 tons = ( 145,000 pounds)
|mass={{Convert|47|MT}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|max accel=
|max speed= 82 km/h (51 mph){{Ref/Site|Id=waypoint|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/vehicles/wraith|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Wraith|D=11|M=5|Y=2021}}
|max speed space=
|engine=[[Boosted gravity propulsion drive]]{{Ref/Game|Id=H2spec|H2|[[Halo 2: Special Collector's Edition Manual|Special Collector's Edition Manual]]|Detail=page 17}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|max speed air=
|hull={{Convert|61|cm|ft|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}}
|engine=[[Boosted Gravity Propulsion Drive]]<ref>''[[Halo 2: Special Collector's Edition Manual]]'', page 17</ref>
|slipspace drive=
|slipspace speed=
|poweroutput=
|power=
|shield gen=
|hull=2 Rockets
|sensor=
|sensor=
|target=
|target=
|navigation=
|armament=*1 [[Heavy plasma mortar|Type-26 35cm Directed Energy Mortar]]{{Ref/Book|Id=H4EVG|H4EVG|Page=117}}
|avionics=
*1 [[Type-26 Directed Energy Weapon Emplacement]]{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}}
|countermeasures=
|crew=*1 driver{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|armament=*[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]
*1 gunner{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
**[[Plasma Mortar]]
*Halo 2
**[[Plasma Mortar]]  
**Automated [[Plasma Cannons]] (2)
*Halo 3
**[[Plasma Mortar]]
**Secondary [[Plasma Cannon|Plasma Turret]]
|complement=
|complement=
|crew=*Halo: Combat Evolved
**1 NPC
*Halo 2
**1 Driver only
*Halo 3
**1 Driver
**1 Secondary gunner
|skeleton=
|passengers=None
|capacity= 2
|consumables=
|consumables=
|othersystems=
|othersystems=
|firstuse=
|role=Light assault gun carriage
|role=Ground assault vehicle
*Armoured infantry support
|era=  
*Mobile Anti-vehicle / anti-armor battery
|affiliation=[[Covenant]]
*Mobile artillery / siege warfare
|firstuse-title=In service
|firstuse=*[[Human-Covenant War]]
*[[Great Schism]]
*[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
**[[Blooding Years]]
|affiliation=*[[Covenant]]<br>
*[[Covenant separatists]]
*[[Covenant remnants]]
**[[Swords of Sanghelios]]
**[[Servants of Abiding Truth]]
**[[Merg Vol's Covenant]]
**[[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant]]
**[[Sali 'Nyon's Covenant]]
}}
}}
The '''Type-25 [[Wikipedia:Self-propelled gun|Assault Gun Carriage]]''', commonly called a '''Wraith''', is the [[Covenant]]'s main heavy assault [[vehicle]] for ground engagements. The Wraith can be rapidly deployed in a combat-ready state by [[Spirit]] or [[Phantom]] dropships, and as such is a difficulty of [[UNSC]] soldiers. The [[Type-52 Anti Aircraft Artillery]] is a variant of the Wraith.
The '''''Zurdo''-pattern Mortar Tank''' {{Type|26|Assault Gun Carriage|AGC}},{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}} more commonly known as the '''Wraith''', is the [[Covenant]]'s main armoured infantry support/assault gun vehicle for ground engagements.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}


== Weapons and Armor ==
==Overview==
The Wraith's primary weapon, a short-barreled [[Plasma Mortar]], is fixed horizontally but can be skewed vertically in mid-fire. To discharge the mortar, the entire vehicle must turn to face its target. The mortar can be retracted into the hull while not in use, a design advantage considering the vehicle's awkward firing requirements. The mortar fires large bolts of superheated, magnetically contained guided plasma into a "arc" shape in the air, raining down on enemy troops with tremendous force. A direct hit can penetrate nearly any [[armor]], and even an indirect hit is often deadly. This makes shots less speedy and precise, but more capable of catching enemies off guard. The target must be at least eight meters away for the Wraith to use the weapon outside of the "dead zone", an area in which it would cause damage to itself as well as the target <ref>Halo:the Flood</ref>
===Design details===
[[File:Wraith.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Blueprint of the Wraith.]]
The ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraith is the primary armored ground vehicle used by the Covenant.{{Ref/Site|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/projects/reach/article.aspx?ucc=ordnance&cid=25444|Site=Bungie.net|Page=Halo: Reach Ordnance Page|D=7|M=2|Y=2021}} The Covenant deploys Wraiths in tactical ground engagements, where they serve in both anti-infantry and anti-armor roles. The Wraith's firepower also makes it ideal for destroying structures.{{Ref/Reuse|H2spec}}


The secondary weapon of the Wraith is an automatic plasma cannon(only seen in [[Halo 3]]) which possesses an extremely high rate of fire and is powerful enough to penetrate the armor of light vehicles..However, although devastating to (and designed to deter) infantry and would-be boarders and barriers, the plasma cannon is ineffective against heavy armor.  
Like all Covenant ground vehicles, the Wraith is sleek, bulbous and more reminiscent of an aircraft than a traditional ground vehicle. The Wraith is divided into four main sections: chassis, fins, rudders, and plasma mortar. The chassis houses the cockpit, which includes movement, targeting and firing controls. Holographic control surfaces and displays show the pilot a 360-degree view outside the Wraith.{{Ref/Novel|FS|Page=113}} Underneath the cockpit is a [[boosted gravity propulsion drive]],{{Ref/Game|Id=h2manual|H2|[[Halo 2 manual|manual]]|Detail=page 19}} which propels the Wraith and keeps it suspended a short distance above the ground. The Wraith's engine vents excess heat and plasma through an exhaust port at the rear of the vehicle; this port is one of the more vulnerable spots on the Wraith. The wide, sweeping fins at the front of the vehicle stabilize the vehicle on uneven terrain, as well as provide extra thrust during a boost.{{Ref/Reuse|h2manual}} At the rear of the Wraith are two rudders, which control the turning of the vehicle using independent propulsion drives. The fourth major component is the Wraith's main weapon, a heavy plasma mortar, which rests above and behind the cockpit and can be retracted within the main body. The entirety of the Wraith is covered by nearly two feet of armor plating, which is composed of a polymer that is still poorly understood by human physicists.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}}


Wraiths possess heavy armor and are difficult to destroy. The heavily armored hull and chassis make the Wraith almost immune to small-arms fire, and the vehicle can only be incapacitated by heavy weapons, artillery or internal explosions. The pilot is well protected within the hull, and even the weaponry are armored. Typical of assault vehicles, the front armor is capable of taking much heavier punishment than the flanks or rear. However, even the underbelly of the vehicle is heavily armored to protect the anti-gravity plates underneath the chassis. Before the addition of the plasma cannons wraiths were particurally vulnerable to infantry, and fast moving vehicles making flanking attempts, also due to the wraiths slow speed and lack of a suitable anti-air weapon they are useless at deterring ariel assaults.  
===Armaments===
The main weapon of the Wraith is its 35cm [[heavy plasma mortar]].{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}} The Wraith's mortar is attached to a fixed mounting, meaning that a Wraith must be facing its target in order to hit it.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}} The plasma mortar works by creating a magnetically encapsulated blob of superheated plasma and firing it at a relatively low velocity. Once fired, the bolt is magnetically guided in a ballistic trajectory until it strikes the ground or target. When the bolt hits, the magnetic bubble collapses and the plasma rapidly expands from its compressed state, creating a superheated explosion that will vaporize everything within twenty meters of impact.{{Ref/Novel|Id=fs112|FS|Page=112}} Titanium battleplate, concrete, or flesh is instantly obliterated by the blast. Anything just outside of the kill zone is at risk of injury or death — after the initial impact, the plasma begins to cool and thermal expansion takes over, creating a wave of fire traveling outward that can travel away from the initial blast zone. Infantry within range can sustain burns and heat trauma. The explosion also generates a large amount of concussive force, which can splinter bones and destroy vital organs.{{Ref/Anthology|Evo|Palace Hotel|Page=351}} Flammable materials are especially at risk of igniting due to the intense heat release and can cause further damage. Once the heat from the explosion dissipates, the blast zone will have been converted into a glass-smooth surface - much like the swaths of vitrified soil created by "[[glassing]]".


The Wraith is also equipped with an anti-infantry [[Type-26 Directed Energy Weapon Emplacement|T-26 DEWE light plasma cannon]].{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}} This turret is able to burn through armor and flesh, with predictably gruesome results. Against infantry, the cannon's plasma causes severe fourth-degree burns.


== Gameplay ==
All ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraiths made after 2549 featured a ring mount for the light plasma cannon,{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}} allowing an additional crew member on the Wraith.{{Ref/Site|Id=odststats|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/stats/halo3/careerstatsodst.aspx?player=AkajiCZ|Site=Bungie.net|Page=Halo 3 ODST Career Stats|Quote=All post-2549 model Wraiths have an extended crew area with a Type-52 DESW in a ring mount.|Quotee=Wraith - Gunner tooltip description|D=22|M=12|Y=2013}}{{Ref/Site|Id=reachstats|URL=https://halo.bungie.net/stats/reach/careerstats/weapons.aspx?player=thegamer298&vc=4&sort=5|Site=Bungie.net|Page=Reach : Career Stats|Quote=All post-2549 model Wraiths have an extended crew area with a Type-52 DESW in a ring mount.|Quotee=Wraith Type-26 AGC (Gunner) tooltip description|D=19|M=7|Y=2019}}
In battle, the Wraith is analogous to UNSC [[Scorpion Tanks]], which are slower, but possess more precise weapons capable of firing along line-of-sight. In [[Halo: Combat Evolved]] Wraiths can only be piloted by [[Elites]]. In [[Halo 2]], [[Spartans]], [[Marines]], Elites, [[Brutes]], and [[Flood]] [[Combat Forms]] may operate the vehicle. In ''Halo 3'', Spartans, Marines, Elites, and Brutes still pilot Wraiths. The vehicle is slow and easily boarded, and without [[Ghosts]] as defending escorts, a boarding party has a good chance of success. However, having a passenger manning the plasma turret exponentially decreases the chances of a successful boarding, as the turret's wide field of view and high rate of fire make it ideal for destroying infantry.
<gallery>
File:H3-T26WraithAGC.png|The ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraith with the ring mount.
File:HReach-T26WraithAGC.png|Alternate chassis with the ring mount.
</gallery>


===Halo: Combat Evolved===
===Advantages===
In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', the Wraith tank is a tough adversary and cannot be driven by the player. The Wraith first appears in the Grav-Bay of the [[Truth and Reconciliation]]. Some are also seen in the storage and shuttle bays of the ship. The vehicles appear in combat in [[Assault on the Control Room]] and [[Two Betrayals]]. This version of the Wraith has no anti-personnel weapons, and the graphics are less detailed than in future games, with the mortar looking like a tube. The Wraith can survive up to two to three direct rocket hits before being destroyed. While formidable, it is not without weaknesses. Wraiths can be flipped, knocking the Elite driver out of the vehicle and rendering it useless.
With the exception of the [[Scarab]], the Wraith is the Covenant's most destructive mobile armor. Its huge bulk is well shielded from small arms fire, and it is resistant to medium explosive weapons. Its ability to be deployed with the aid of dropships makes insertions into the battlefield fairly easy. Its plasma mortar can easily decimate infantry and vehicles alike, and its destructive powers are so well known to UNSC forces that the mere sight of one on the battlefield can induce psychological effects.{{Ref/Reuse|fs112}} One of the benefits is the mortar function due to the trajectory that can suppress any incoming enemy from behind the wall, or those who are stationed at the rooftop that can't be reached by a Scorpion Tank's trajectory. While it's not suitable for head to head battle, it is most suitable to conduct a suppression fire mainly against enemy infantry.


===Halo 2 ===
===Disadvantages===
In ''Halo 2'', the Wraith has two weapons: the standard plasma mortar and two automated Plasma Cannons. Although they are not very accurate, they can easily take down [[energy shielding]]. The turrets auto-target any enemy within range, making [[boarding]] a Wraith more difficult. However, the player cannot utilize these turrets themselves, meaning that the Wraith is somewhat ineffective in the player's hands. The ''Halo 2'' Wraith also includes a booster engine, capable of tripling the tank's speed for about one second and requires five seconds to recharge. Though this can be used to travel more quickly, it is commonly used to run over enemies who are getting too close. This booster can flip small vehicles, such as [[Ghosts]] or [[Warthogs]]. This version of Wraith is more difficult to defeat by melee unlike the version in ''Halo 3''.
The Wraith's main disadvantage is its slow speed, due to the vehicle's massive weight. While the boost drive can propel the vehicle to moderately high speeds, the maneuverability of the vehicle is compromised —  turning becomes difficult during a boost, and the momentum that is built from it makes it possible for the vehicle to inadvertently plow through friendly forces, crash into and get lodged between stationary objects, or overshoot its mark and skate off of a cliff or into a body of water. The Wraith is also poorly suited for scaling inclines.  


=== Halo 3 ===
Like most tanks, the Wraith has a "dead area", a zone in which the plasma mortar cannot fire without risking damage to itself.<ref>'''[[Halo: The Flood]]''' ''page 184''</ref> The slow speed and cumbersome nature of the Wraith makes it prone to boarding action — while the front of the tank is harder to board because of the plasma turret(s), the rear is highly susceptible to boarding. A small rotating cylinder exhaust port in the back is a vulnerable spot that, if hit with a medium explosive device or anti-materiél weapons fire, can damage the tank severely. The exposed gunner operating the Type-52 DESW is also an easy target for marksman and sniper fire.
[[Image:H3 Wraith.jpg|right|thumb|200px|The new [[Wraith]] in [[Halo 3]], with the turret operation seat.]]
A more powerful version of the Wraith appears in ''[[Halo 3]]''. New features include headlights, faster and more direct line of fire, and an improved rear propulsion jet. However, the propulsion jet represents an extremely vulnerable spot in the armor, making it possible for the first time to destroy a Wraith with melee attacks. A strong hit to the jet after removing its cover causes a violent chain reaction of explosions. The new turret fires energy blasts resembling the shots of the [[Plasma Rifle]] instead of a beam like the [[Spectre]]. The tank has a subtle greenish shine to it and an embedded latticework that glimmers in the light. The most dramatic design change added a exposed topside gunnery position with a 270° view, allowing for better defense against enemy soldiers and boarders. Boarding is made more difficult in that now boarders have both a pilot and gunner to kill before gaining control of the vehicle. The Wraith now has the ability to attack two targets independent of one another, (such as focusing the mortar on destroying a nearby Warthog, while the gunner takes out a player onfoot attempting to hijack the vehicle from the sides.) The turret is powerful enough to destroy a Ghost before one can  successfully destroy the Wraith, (unless it gets right behind it and shoots at the jet.)


== Character Compatibility ==
Since its weaponry is designed to be used against non-mobile or low-mobility targets, and its weight and wide profile prevent it from maneuvering with any deal of speed and accuracy, the Wraith is a very soft target for high mobility vehicles, such as a [[Warthog]] or a [[Ghost]], and is at a high risk of destruction against a vehicle with a much more accurate heavy weapon (such as the [[Scorpion]] with its direct-firing 90mm cannon).


*[[Elites]]
The Plasma Mortar is also ill-suited for long range combat, as it moves so slowly that even units with low mobility-such as the Scorpion tank-can dodge it.
*[[Flood Combat forms]] (Halo 2 only)
*[[Brutes]]
*[[Spartan|Spartans]]


== Trivia ==
==Operational history==
*When in Halo 3 [[Forge]], if you enter a Wraith normally, wait a few seconds, then exit by entering Monitor Mode, the Main Turret will not retract into the vehicle. This can sometimes give your enemies the false sense there's someone in the Wraith. If you flip the tank, you can give the same effect.
===Human-Covenant War===
*Make sure when playing multiplayer you have a turret man to support you. Even though you are doing most of the damage as the driver the secondary gunner (turret) will make it much harder for enemies to board and quickly dispose of your vehicle.
The Wraith has been in service to the Covenant for centuries,{{Ref/Film|HLeg|Episode=The Duel}} and has served in countless [[Battle|engagements]] during the [[Human-Covenant War]]. After [[Second Battle of Harvest|the retaking]] of [[Harvest]] in [[2526]] by [[Admiral]] [[Preston Jeremiah Cole|Cole]], the Covenant, attempting to scout and recover [[Relic (location)|an artifact]], deployed multiple Wraiths during [[Harvest Campaign|the assault]] on Harvest.
*Marines call it a "Wraith" because, as mentioned in [[Halo: The Flood]], "You would get one look at it before you turned into one". Meaning that a Marine would probably see a Wraith before getting killed by the plasma mortars (turning into 'wraiths' or 'ghosts').
*Since many people attempt to board the wraith, drivers usually boost to splatter them. Many disregard this, as the speed change looks insignificant.
*The mortars of the wraith in ''Halo 3'' go significantly further then its previous counter parts.
*If you board the ''Halo 3'' Wraith from behind you can melee or plant a grenade on the rear propulsion jet. This works especially well in co-op because the other player can distract it while you board and the turret can't reach you back there.
* If a ''Halo 3'' Wraith driver holds down the 'A' button while driving, the Wraith's front 'Wings' will enclose and pull the front of the Wraith upwards to form a wheelie. This makes a great way to splatter another vehicle or player.
*The best way to destroy a Wraith is to attack the Exhaust Port in the back. It takes only three [[melee]] hits to the back to destroy one.
* The Plasma Mortar has changed from the ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' depiction. The Plasma Mortar was a lot taller than the one in ''Halo 2'', also its shots were slightly smaller.
*In multiplayer it is suggested to have the Wraith against a wall when possible, to prevent the weak spot from being hit.
*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', wraiths are seen, but are not drivable due to not being able to hijack vehicles.
*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', it is possible to snipe the driver out of it, but you still cannot drive it.
*About 6 wraiths were on the "[[The Codex]]" episode "Siege of Delta Base" that were used by the [[Covenant]] to "destroy" or drive the humans out of Delta Base. Around 2 were destroyed by Red-1, or as you may know him as know him as Jack, on one of his well-known "suicide runs".


== Sources ==
Throughout the war the Covenant deployed Wraiths during ground campaigns against [[civilian]] and military targets. Wraiths would commonly target civilian evacuation transports still on the ground and platforms and structures leading to them, or would fire and kill large groups of civilians crowded together. In [[2531]], during the [[Battle of Arcadia|first assault]] on the colony world [[Arcadia]], multiple Wraiths were used in this situation to kill panicking civilians attempting to flee the Covenant invasion. The tanks assisted in destroying structures and platforms holding civilians waiting for evacuation. In addition, the tanks were used against UNSC military forces attempting to assist with evacuation efforts.{{Ref/Level|HW|Arcadia City}} During the [[Battle of Trove]], Wraiths were used by Covenant forces against not only the crew of the {{UNSCShip|Spirit of Fire}} but also the [[Flood]] and Sentinels as well.{{Ref/Level|HW|[[Beachhead (Halo Wars level)|Beachhead]]}}


<references/>
As the war dragged on, ground campaigns conducted by the Covenant continued to employ the Wraith as their main heavy armored vehicle. During the [[Algolis Invasion|assault]] on [[Algolis]] the Wraiths were called in to weaken military forces attempting to protect and destroy valuable data. The UNSC was able to hold off the Covenant just long enough and all ground forces were eventually destroyed with the detonation of a nuclear weapon attached to a [[HRUNTING/YGGDRASIL Mark I Prototype Armor Defense System|prototype armor suit]].{{Ref/Film|Id=Prototype|HLeg|Episode=Prototype}}


== Related Links ==
As the war with [[human]]ity was reaching its apex, the Covenant began updating and building up their military campaign against humanity. After [[2549]], all models of the ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraith were equipped with a ring mount for a secondary gunner to operate the Wraith's plasma cannon.{{Ref/Reuse|odststats}}{{Ref/Reuse|reachstats}} During [[Battle of Sigma Octanus IV|the invasion]] of [[Sigma Octanus IV]] in [[2552#July|July 2552]] the Covenant deployed numerous tanks to take out strategic areas on the planet including [[military base]]s and civilian structures.{{Ref/Novel|Id=HTFOR|TFoR|Chapter=19}} No sooner had that battle finished the Covenant launched [[Fall of Reach|a surprise assault]] on [[Reach]], humanity's heavily fortified epicenter of military and economic power outside of Earth. Multiple divisions of Wraith tanks were employed to inflict mass casualties on civilian and military forces alike. Their campaign was successful destroying major military and civilian transports, structures and killing countless in the process.{{Ref/Level|HR|Tip of the Spear}}{{Ref/Level|HR|Exodus}}


*[[Scorpion Tank]] - UNSC equivalent of the Wraith
During the opening of the [[Battle for Earth]], the ''[[Solemn Penance]]'' managed to jump to the city of [[Mombasa]]. In the short but bloody [[Battle of Mombasa|campaign]], the Covenant was able to land armor and troops into the city. Wraiths quickly moved in to cut off civilian evacuation by the city's rail system.{{Ref/Game|H3ODST|Sadie's Story}} With civilians cut off, the Covenant began systematically destroying anything they could before the Prophet of Regret's ship jumped out of [[New Mombasa]], destroying parts the city.{{Ref/Level|H3ODST|Prepare to Drop}} In the aftermath of Regret's retreat the full-scale invasion of Earth began, the Covenant laid waste to many parts of the planet and Wraiths were on the forefront of the ground assault.{{Ref/Level|H3ODST|Kizingo Boulevard}}{{Ref/Level|H3ODST|ONI Alpha Site}}
*[[Type-52 Anti Aircraft Artillery]] - An anti-air variant of the Wraith
*[[Unknown Wraith]] - A new form of wraith that has no known purpose yet
<kaltura-widget kalturaid='283085' size='M' align='R'/>


{{Covenant Vehicles}}
With the uncovering of the [[Portal at Voi]], the Covenant moved all their troops and armor to prevent the UNSC military from getting close to it. They deployed Wraiths to dispatch military forces attempting to break through their formation.{{Ref/Level|H3|Tsavo Highway}}{{Ref/Level|H3|The Storm}} After the opening of the portal and the arrival at [[Installation 00]] the Covenant deployed all their assets in a [[Battle of Installation 00|last ditch effort]] to stop humanity and activate the remaining [[halo Array|Halo installations]]. Wraiths were front and center in this operation, although ultimately, they lost to their human enemies.{{Ref/Level|H3|[[The Ark (level)|The Ark]]}}{{Ref/Level|H3|[[The Covenant (level)|The Covenant]]}}


===Post-War===
During the post-war period, Wraiths were popular during [[War Games]] matches aboard [[Anvil Station]] and the {{UNSCShip|Infinity}}. Wraiths were used by [[Merg Vol's Covenant]] during the [[Battle of Draetheus V]] in [[2554]]. Many would be destroyed by both [[SPARTAN-IV program|Spartans]] [[Sarah Palmer]] and [[Edward Davis]] with the help of the [[UNSC Marine Corps]] and [[UNSC Army]].{{Ref/Level|HSA|Mission 4: Live to Fight}}{{Ref/Level|HSA|Mission 10: Battle at Red Slate}} [[2557|Four years]] after the end of the Human-Covenant War, [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant]] continued to use the Wraith. Multiple Wraiths were used in the [[Battle of Requiem|attack]] on the {{UNSCShip|Infinity}}'s crash site.{{Ref/Level|H4|[[Infinity (level)|Infinity]]}} Several were later used in defense of the [[Forerunner]] [[particle cannon]]s.{{Ref/Level|H4|[[Reclaimer (level)|Reclaimer]]}} Wraiths were also used during the Didact's [[Raid on Ivanoff Station]] in their attempt to secure the [[Composer]].{{Ref/Level|H4|[[Composer (level)|Composer]]}} The faction utilized a number of Wraiths during the [[Battle of Installation 03]].{{Ref/Level|HSS|Mission 9: Lockout}} Wraiths were deployed to many sites across the interior of Requiem during the [[Requiem Campaign|combat]] within the planet [[2558|six months later]].{{Ref/SpOps|Episode=Departure|Level=Land Grab}}{{Ref/SpOps|Episode=Catherine|Level=Shootout in Valhalla}}{{Ref/SpOps|Episode=Expendable|Level=Unfinished Business}} 'Mdama's faction would again use Wraiths during the [[Battle of Aktis IV|conflict]] on [[Aktis IV]]. A [[Sali 'Nyon's Covenant|rebel offshoot]] of 'Mdama's faction led by [[Sali 'Nyon]] also possessed at least one Wraith.{{Ref/Comic|HEsc|Issue=[[Halo: Escalation Issue 24|#24]]}} During [[Operation: ATHENA]] 'Mdama's forces used multiple ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraiths in an attempt to stop a team of Spartan-IVs.{{Ref/Comic|HEsc|Issue=[[Halo: Escalation Issue 20|#20]]}}


[[Category:The Covenant]]
By October 2558, the newer {{Pattern|Kemu|Wraith}} was becoming more commonplace within Jul 'Mdama's Covenant forces and the [[Swords of Sanghelios]].{{Ref/Site|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-designs-of-the-times|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Canon Fodder - Designs of the Times|D=26|M=8|Y=2021}}
[[Category:Vehicles]]
 
[[Category:The Covenant]]
==Trivia==
[[Category:Drivable Vehicles]]
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes}}
*It is wrongly stated in the ''Halo 2'' manual that the player can shoot the Wraith's plasma cannons while driving; these are usable only by NPCs in gameplay. The ''Halo 3'' manual claims that the Wraith features the aforementioned cannons, though they appear only in ''Halo 2''.
*An [[:File:HR Wraith Marathon symbol.png|abstract depiction]] of the ''[[Marathon]]'' logo [[List of Marathon references in the Halo series|is embedded in the Wraith's cockpit]] in ''Halo: Reach''. [[Bungie]] limited their use of ''Marathon'' references in the game due to intellectual property concerns, as opposed to the logo's frequent appearances in the original trilogy.
*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary'', the Wraith's model was carried over from ''Halo: Reach'' with no changes. As such the T-52 plasma cannon is still mounted on top, though it is not usable. Conversely, the Scorpion tank's independently mounted machine gun was removed entirely.
*It is possible, though difficult, to hijack a Wraith by hopping in the mounted turret while an enemy is still inside of it, while not harming the Wraith. In ''Halo Reach'' and ''Halo 4'', in Campaign, [[Firefight]] or [[Spartan Ops]], respectively, if the player is able to get in the turret while an enemy NPC driver is still in, the driver will hop out and usually start shooting at the player, after which the player can dispatch the enemy with the turret and claim the Wraith, possibly with it being undamaged.
*Since ''[[Halo 4]]'', if the player presses the melee button while boosting, the Wraith will perform a super glide, in which the vehicle lifts its nose to pass over obstacles, while also making splatters a little bit easier.
 
==Gallery==
===''Halo 3''===
<gallery>
File:WraithH3.png|Render of an active Wraith.
File:H3 TsavoBattle.png|A Wraith fires its mortar at a Warthog.
File:H3 Wraith.jpg|A Wraith with a Jiralhanae Minor in its gunner seat.
File:H3-Wraith.png|An active Wraith on [[Highground]] in multiplayer.
File:H3-WraithHUD.png|HUD of the Wraith's operator.
File:H3-WraithturretHUD.png|HUD of the Wraith's gunner.
</gallery>
 
===''Halo 3: ODST''===
<gallery>
File:H3ODST KizingoBoulevardBattle3.jpg|A Wraith fires its mortar at [[Michael Crespo|Mickey]]'s Scropion.
File:HTMCC-H3ODST BridgeAssault.jpg|Covenant infantry supported by Wraiths in an assault on [[ONI Alpha Site (location)|ONI Alpha Site]].
File:HTMCC-H3ODST-FloodWraith.png|The Flood using a Wraith in [[Firefight]] in ''Halo: The Master Chief Collection''.
</gallery>
 
===''Halo: Reach''===
<gallery>
File:Reach T25 TR Inact.jpg|Reference of an inactive ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraith.
File:Reach T25 TR act.jpg|Reference of an active ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraith.
File:Reach T25 eng mor.jpg|Reference of the heavy plasma mortar fired by the ''Zurdo''-pattern Wraith.
File:Reach MPBeta Wraith.png|Render of an inactive Wraith in the [[Halo: Reach Multiplayer Beta|''Halo: Reach'' Multiplayer Beta]].
File:Reach Wraith Active.png|Render of an active Wraith.
File:Wraith symbols.png|Patterns on the Wraith.
File:Revenant - Gameplay01.png|A {{Pattern|Rizvum|Revenant}} fighting two Wraiths.
File:HR-WraithHUD.png|HUD of the Wraith's operator.
</gallery>
 
===''Halo 4''===
<gallery>
File:H4-T26WraithAGC.png|Render of an inactive Wraith.
File:Wraith H4guide.png|Another render of an inactive Wraith.
File:H4-T26WraithAGC-Active.png|Render of an active Wraith.
File:H4-Scorpion-Versus-Wraith.jpg|A Wraith battling an [[M808 Scorpion]].
File:H4-MasterChief-Versus-Wraith.jpg|[[John-117]] throws a plasma grenade on a Wraith.
File:H4-SpOps-LandGrab-Wraith-3rdPerson.jpg|A Wraith in ''Spartan Ops''.
File:H4-WraithHUD.png|HUD of the Wraith's operator.
File:H4-WraithturretHUD.png|HUD of the Wraith's gunner.
</gallery>
 
==List of appearances==
{{col-begin}}
{{col-2}}
*''[[Starry Night]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo: Uprising]]''
*''[[Halo 3]]''
*''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
**''[[Sadie's Story]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
**''[[The Duel]]''
**''[[Prototype]]''
*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
*''[[Halo: Reach]]''
*''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Invasion|Invasion]]''
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''
{{col-2}}
*''[[Halo 4]]''
**''[[Spartan Ops]]''
*''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
*''[[Halo: Ground Command]]''
*''[[Halo Mythos]]''
*''[[Halo: Rise of Atriox]]''
*''[[Halo: Winter Contention]]''
{{col-end}}
 
==Sources==
{{Ref/Sources}}
 
{{Wraiths}}
[[Category:Drivable vehicles]]
[[Category:Wraith variants]]

Latest revision as of 15:22, February 5, 2024

Type-26 Wraith redirects here. For other types of Wraith, see Wraith.
Zurdo-pattern Mortar Tank
H3-T26WraithAGC.png
Production information

Manufacturer:

Model:

Zurdo-pattern

Technical specifications

Length:

8.8 meters (29 ft)[1][4][5][2]

Width:

9.2 metres (30 ft)[1][2]

Height:

3.7 metres (12 ft)[2]

Mass:

47 metric tons (46 LT; 52 ST)[4][5][2]

Maximum speed:

82 km/h (51 mph)[6]

Engine(s):

Boosted gravity propulsion drive[7][2]

Hull:

61 centimeters (2.0 ft)[4][5]

Armament:

Crew:

Usage

In service:

Role(s):

Light assault gun carriage

  • Armoured infantry support
  • Mobile Anti-vehicle / anti-armor battery
  • Mobile artillery / siege warfare

Affiliation:

 

The Zurdo-pattern Mortar Tank (UNSC Type classification: Type-26 Assault Gun Carriage, T-26 AGC),[4] more commonly known as the Wraith, is the Covenant's main armoured infantry support/assault gun vehicle for ground engagements.[2]

Overview[edit]

Design details[edit]

Blueprint of the Wraith.

The Zurdo-pattern Wraith is the primary armored ground vehicle used by the Covenant.[8] The Covenant deploys Wraiths in tactical ground engagements, where they serve in both anti-infantry and anti-armor roles. The Wraith's firepower also makes it ideal for destroying structures.[7]

Like all Covenant ground vehicles, the Wraith is sleek, bulbous and more reminiscent of an aircraft than a traditional ground vehicle. The Wraith is divided into four main sections: chassis, fins, rudders, and plasma mortar. The chassis houses the cockpit, which includes movement, targeting and firing controls. Holographic control surfaces and displays show the pilot a 360-degree view outside the Wraith.[9] Underneath the cockpit is a boosted gravity propulsion drive,[10] which propels the Wraith and keeps it suspended a short distance above the ground. The Wraith's engine vents excess heat and plasma through an exhaust port at the rear of the vehicle; this port is one of the more vulnerable spots on the Wraith. The wide, sweeping fins at the front of the vehicle stabilize the vehicle on uneven terrain, as well as provide extra thrust during a boost.[10] At the rear of the Wraith are two rudders, which control the turning of the vehicle using independent propulsion drives. The fourth major component is the Wraith's main weapon, a heavy plasma mortar, which rests above and behind the cockpit and can be retracted within the main body. The entirety of the Wraith is covered by nearly two feet of armor plating, which is composed of a polymer that is still poorly understood by human physicists.[4]

Armaments[edit]

The main weapon of the Wraith is its 35cm heavy plasma mortar.[3] The Wraith's mortar is attached to a fixed mounting, meaning that a Wraith must be facing its target in order to hit it.[4] The plasma mortar works by creating a magnetically encapsulated blob of superheated plasma and firing it at a relatively low velocity. Once fired, the bolt is magnetically guided in a ballistic trajectory until it strikes the ground or target. When the bolt hits, the magnetic bubble collapses and the plasma rapidly expands from its compressed state, creating a superheated explosion that will vaporize everything within twenty meters of impact.[11] Titanium battleplate, concrete, or flesh is instantly obliterated by the blast. Anything just outside of the kill zone is at risk of injury or death — after the initial impact, the plasma begins to cool and thermal expansion takes over, creating a wave of fire traveling outward that can travel away from the initial blast zone. Infantry within range can sustain burns and heat trauma. The explosion also generates a large amount of concussive force, which can splinter bones and destroy vital organs.[12] Flammable materials are especially at risk of igniting due to the intense heat release and can cause further damage. Once the heat from the explosion dissipates, the blast zone will have been converted into a glass-smooth surface - much like the swaths of vitrified soil created by "glassing".

The Wraith is also equipped with an anti-infantry T-26 DEWE light plasma cannon.[3] This turret is able to burn through armor and flesh, with predictably gruesome results. Against infantry, the cannon's plasma causes severe fourth-degree burns.

All Zurdo-pattern Wraiths made after 2549 featured a ring mount for the light plasma cannon,[3] allowing an additional crew member on the Wraith.[13][14]

Advantages[edit]

With the exception of the Scarab, the Wraith is the Covenant's most destructive mobile armor. Its huge bulk is well shielded from small arms fire, and it is resistant to medium explosive weapons. Its ability to be deployed with the aid of dropships makes insertions into the battlefield fairly easy. Its plasma mortar can easily decimate infantry and vehicles alike, and its destructive powers are so well known to UNSC forces that the mere sight of one on the battlefield can induce psychological effects.[11] One of the benefits is the mortar function due to the trajectory that can suppress any incoming enemy from behind the wall, or those who are stationed at the rooftop that can't be reached by a Scorpion Tank's trajectory. While it's not suitable for head to head battle, it is most suitable to conduct a suppression fire mainly against enemy infantry.

Disadvantages[edit]

The Wraith's main disadvantage is its slow speed, due to the vehicle's massive weight. While the boost drive can propel the vehicle to moderately high speeds, the maneuverability of the vehicle is compromised — turning becomes difficult during a boost, and the momentum that is built from it makes it possible for the vehicle to inadvertently plow through friendly forces, crash into and get lodged between stationary objects, or overshoot its mark and skate off of a cliff or into a body of water. The Wraith is also poorly suited for scaling inclines.

Like most tanks, the Wraith has a "dead area", a zone in which the plasma mortar cannot fire without risking damage to itself.[15] The slow speed and cumbersome nature of the Wraith makes it prone to boarding action — while the front of the tank is harder to board because of the plasma turret(s), the rear is highly susceptible to boarding. A small rotating cylinder exhaust port in the back is a vulnerable spot that, if hit with a medium explosive device or anti-materiél weapons fire, can damage the tank severely. The exposed gunner operating the Type-52 DESW is also an easy target for marksman and sniper fire.

Since its weaponry is designed to be used against non-mobile or low-mobility targets, and its weight and wide profile prevent it from maneuvering with any deal of speed and accuracy, the Wraith is a very soft target for high mobility vehicles, such as a Warthog or a Ghost, and is at a high risk of destruction against a vehicle with a much more accurate heavy weapon (such as the Scorpion with its direct-firing 90mm cannon).

The Plasma Mortar is also ill-suited for long range combat, as it moves so slowly that even units with low mobility-such as the Scorpion tank-can dodge it.

Operational history[edit]

Human-Covenant War[edit]

The Wraith has been in service to the Covenant for centuries,[16] and has served in countless engagements during the Human-Covenant War. After the retaking of Harvest in 2526 by Admiral Cole, the Covenant, attempting to scout and recover an artifact, deployed multiple Wraiths during the assault on Harvest.

Throughout the war the Covenant deployed Wraiths during ground campaigns against civilian and military targets. Wraiths would commonly target civilian evacuation transports still on the ground and platforms and structures leading to them, or would fire and kill large groups of civilians crowded together. In 2531, during the first assault on the colony world Arcadia, multiple Wraiths were used in this situation to kill panicking civilians attempting to flee the Covenant invasion. The tanks assisted in destroying structures and platforms holding civilians waiting for evacuation. In addition, the tanks were used against UNSC military forces attempting to assist with evacuation efforts.[17] During the Battle of Trove, Wraiths were used by Covenant forces against not only the crew of the UNSC Spirit of Fire but also the Flood and Sentinels as well.[18]

As the war dragged on, ground campaigns conducted by the Covenant continued to employ the Wraith as their main heavy armored vehicle. During the assault on Algolis the Wraiths were called in to weaken military forces attempting to protect and destroy valuable data. The UNSC was able to hold off the Covenant just long enough and all ground forces were eventually destroyed with the detonation of a nuclear weapon attached to a prototype armor suit.[19]

As the war with humanity was reaching its apex, the Covenant began updating and building up their military campaign against humanity. After 2549, all models of the Zurdo-pattern Wraith were equipped with a ring mount for a secondary gunner to operate the Wraith's plasma cannon.[13][14] During the invasion of Sigma Octanus IV in July 2552 the Covenant deployed numerous tanks to take out strategic areas on the planet including military bases and civilian structures.[20] No sooner had that battle finished the Covenant launched a surprise assault on Reach, humanity's heavily fortified epicenter of military and economic power outside of Earth. Multiple divisions of Wraith tanks were employed to inflict mass casualties on civilian and military forces alike. Their campaign was successful destroying major military and civilian transports, structures and killing countless in the process.[21][22]

During the opening of the Battle for Earth, the Solemn Penance managed to jump to the city of Mombasa. In the short but bloody campaign, the Covenant was able to land armor and troops into the city. Wraiths quickly moved in to cut off civilian evacuation by the city's rail system.[23] With civilians cut off, the Covenant began systematically destroying anything they could before the Prophet of Regret's ship jumped out of New Mombasa, destroying parts the city.[24] In the aftermath of Regret's retreat the full-scale invasion of Earth began, the Covenant laid waste to many parts of the planet and Wraiths were on the forefront of the ground assault.[25][26]

With the uncovering of the Portal at Voi, the Covenant moved all their troops and armor to prevent the UNSC military from getting close to it. They deployed Wraiths to dispatch military forces attempting to break through their formation.[27][28] After the opening of the portal and the arrival at Installation 00 the Covenant deployed all their assets in a last ditch effort to stop humanity and activate the remaining Halo installations. Wraiths were front and center in this operation, although ultimately, they lost to their human enemies.[29][30]

Post-War[edit]

During the post-war period, Wraiths were popular during War Games matches aboard Anvil Station and the UNSC Infinity. Wraiths were used by Merg Vol's Covenant during the Battle of Draetheus V in 2554. Many would be destroyed by both Spartans Sarah Palmer and Edward Davis with the help of the UNSC Marine Corps and UNSC Army.[31][32] Four years after the end of the Human-Covenant War, Jul 'Mdama's Covenant continued to use the Wraith. Multiple Wraiths were used in the attack on the UNSC Infinity's crash site.[33] Several were later used in defense of the Forerunner particle cannons.[34] Wraiths were also used during the Didact's Raid on Ivanoff Station in their attempt to secure the Composer.[35] The faction utilized a number of Wraiths during the Battle of Installation 03.[36] Wraiths were deployed to many sites across the interior of Requiem during the combat within the planet six months later.[37][38][39] 'Mdama's faction would again use Wraiths during the conflict on Aktis IV. A rebel offshoot of 'Mdama's faction led by Sali 'Nyon also possessed at least one Wraith.[40] During Operation: ATHENA 'Mdama's forces used multiple Zurdo-pattern Wraiths in an attempt to stop a team of Spartan-IVs.[41]

By October 2558, the newer Kemu-pattern Wraith was becoming more commonplace within Jul 'Mdama's Covenant forces and the Swords of Sanghelios.[42]

Trivia[edit]

  • It is wrongly stated in the Halo 2 manual that the player can shoot the Wraith's plasma cannons while driving; these are usable only by NPCs in gameplay. The Halo 3 manual claims that the Wraith features the aforementioned cannons, though they appear only in Halo 2.
  • An abstract depiction of the Marathon logo is embedded in the Wraith's cockpit in Halo: Reach. Bungie limited their use of Marathon references in the game due to intellectual property concerns, as opposed to the logo's frequent appearances in the original trilogy.
  • In Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, the Wraith's model was carried over from Halo: Reach with no changes. As such the T-52 plasma cannon is still mounted on top, though it is not usable. Conversely, the Scorpion tank's independently mounted machine gun was removed entirely.
  • It is possible, though difficult, to hijack a Wraith by hopping in the mounted turret while an enemy is still inside of it, while not harming the Wraith. In Halo Reach and Halo 4, in Campaign, Firefight or Spartan Ops, respectively, if the player is able to get in the turret while an enemy NPC driver is still in, the driver will hop out and usually start shooting at the player, after which the player can dispatch the enemy with the turret and claim the Wraith, possibly with it being undamaged.
  • Since Halo 4, if the player presses the melee button while boosting, the Wraith will perform a super glide, in which the vehicle lifts its nose to pass over obstacles, while also making splatters a little bit easier.

Gallery[edit]

Halo 3[edit]

Halo 3: ODST[edit]

Halo: Reach[edit]

Halo 4[edit]

List of appearances[edit]

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 206
  2. ^ a b c d e f g h i Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 275
  3. ^ a b c d e f Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 117
  4. ^ a b c d e f Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition), page 247
  5. ^ a b c Halo Encyclopedia (2011 edition), page 257
  6. ^ Halo Waypoint, Wraith (Retrieved on May 11, 2021) [archive]
  7. ^ a b Halo 2, Special Collector's Edition Manual: page 17
  8. ^ Bungie.net, Halo: Reach Ordnance Page (Retrieved on Feb 7, 2021) [archive]
  9. ^ Halo: First Strike, page 113
  10. ^ a b Halo 2, manual: page 19
  11. ^ a b Halo: First Strike, page 112
  12. ^ Halo: Evolutions - Palace Hotel, page 351
  13. ^ a b Bungie.net, Halo 3 ODST Career Stats: "All post-2549 model Wraiths have an extended crew area with a Type-52 DESW in a ring mount." - Wraith - Gunner tooltip description (Retrieved on Dec 22, 2013) [archive]
  14. ^ a b Bungie.net, Reach : Career Stats: "All post-2549 model Wraiths have an extended crew area with a Type-52 DESW in a ring mount." - Wraith Type-26 AGC (Gunner) tooltip description (Retrieved on Jul 19, 2019) [archive]
  15. ^ Halo: The Flood page 184
  16. ^ Halo Legends, episode The Duel
  17. ^ Halo Wars, campaign level Arcadia City
  18. ^ Halo Wars, campaign level Beachhead
  19. ^ Halo Legends, episode Prototype
  20. ^ Halo: The Fall of Reach, chapter 19
  21. ^ Halo: Reach, campaign level Tip of the Spear
  22. ^ Halo: Reach, campaign level Exodus
  23. ^ Halo 3: ODST, Sadie's Story
  24. ^ Halo 3: ODST, campaign level Prepare to Drop
  25. ^ Halo 3: ODST, campaign level Kizingo Boulevard
  26. ^ Halo 3: ODST, campaign level ONI Alpha Site
  27. ^ Halo 3, campaign level Tsavo Highway
  28. ^ Halo 3, campaign level The Storm
  29. ^ Halo 3, campaign level The Ark
  30. ^ Halo 3, campaign level The Covenant
  31. ^ Halo: Spartan Assault, campaign level Mission 4: Live to Fight
  32. ^ Halo: Spartan Assault, campaign level Mission 10: Battle at Red Slate
  33. ^ Halo 4, campaign level Infinity
  34. ^ Halo 4, campaign level Reclaimer
  35. ^ Halo 4, campaign level Composer
  36. ^ Halo: Spartan Strike, campaign level Mission 9: Lockout
  37. ^ Halo 4 - Spartan Ops, episode Departure, level Land Grab
  38. ^ Halo 4 - Spartan Ops, episode Catherine, level Shootout in Valhalla
  39. ^ Halo 4 - Spartan Ops, episode Expendable, level Unfinished Business
  40. ^ Halo: Escalation, issue #24
  41. ^ Halo: Escalation, issue #20
  42. ^ Halo Waypoint, Canon Fodder - Designs of the Times (Retrieved on Aug 26, 2021) [archive]