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AV-14 Hornet: Difference between revisions

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{{era|H3|HW|CH|UP}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Ratings}}
{{Center|''Were you looking for the [[M441 Hornet Remote Explosive System]], a nuclear weapon used by the UNSC?''}}
{{Ship
{{Vehicle infobox
|image= [[Image:Hornets.jpg|300px]]
|image=[[File:H2A AV-14Hornet.png|300px]]
|name=Hornet
|name=AV-14 Hornet
|manufacturer=Unknown, possibly [[Misriah Armories]]
|manufacturer=[[Misriah Armory]]<ref name="HTEVG">'''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 96''</ref>
|line=
|line=
|model="Hornet" AV-14 Attack VTOL
|model=AV-14
|class=*[[wikipedia:Vertical/Short Takeoff and Landing|VTOL]] Craft
|class=
*Aerial Support Vehicle<ref>http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=13368</ref>
|length={{Convert|9.6|m|ft}}{{Ref/Reuse|HTEVG}}
|length=
|width={{Convert|8.7|m|ft}}{{Ref/Reuse|HTEVG}}
|width=
|height={{Convert|4.45|m|ft}}<ref>'''Halo 3''', ''3D model data''</ref>
|height=
|mass=
|mass=
|max accel=
|max accel=
|max speed space=
|max speed air=
|max speed air=
|engine=
|engine=Turbofan/turbojet engine
|slipspace drive=None
|slipspace speed=
|poweroutput=
|power=
|power=
|shield gen=None
|shield gen=None
Line 28: Line 23:
|avionics=
|avionics=
|countermeasures=
|countermeasures=
|armament=*[[Class-2 Guided Munition Launch System]] (2)
|armament=*Two [[Class-2 Guided Munition Launch System]]s
**Missile Launchers (2)
*Two twin-linked rotary cannons {{C|standard}}
**Tri-Barreled Chain Gun (2)
*One nose-mounted [[GUA-23/AW/Linkless Feed Autocannon]] {{C|variant}}
|complement=  
|complement=  
|crew=*Pilot (1)
|crew=One pilot
|skeleton=
|skeleton=
|passengers=*Two SPARTAN or 4 ODST passengers (optional)
|passengers=Four
|capacity=
|capacity=
|consumables=
|consumables=
|othersystems=
|othersystems=
|firstuse=[[2524]]
|firstuse-title=In service
|role=*Close Air Support
|firstuse=[[Insurrection]] <br>
*Light Troop Transport
[[Human-Covenant War]] <br>
*Fighter
[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]] <br>
|era=Human/Covenant War
|role=Close air support,<ref>[http://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=13368 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update: 3/14/08'']</ref> light troop transport, light anti-vehicle/personnel
|affiliation= [[United Nations Space Command]]
|affiliation=[[Colonial Military Authority]]<ref name="HLL">'''[[Halo: Last Light]]'''</ref>
<br>[[United Nations Space Command]]
}}
}}
The '''AV-14 Attack VTOL'''<ref>EGM September 2007 Issue</ref>, colloquially known as the "'''Hornet'''", is a [[United Nations Space Command]] atmospheric assault vehicle. It is armed with two [[Class-2 Guided Munition Launch System]]s, each including a missile launcher and a tri-barreled chain-gun. It is also capable of carrying two passengers in lateral jump-seats, who are highly exposed.


==Appearance & Use==
The '''AV-14 Hornet''', more formally known as the '''AV-14 Attack VTOL''', is a [[United Nations Space Command]] airborne assault vehicle.
The Hornet consists of a one-man cockpit, which makes up most of its mass, and a rear section extending a meter, or so, backward. From the top of this rear section are a set of wings with what appear to be jet engines/turbo fans at the ends, providing the Hornet's main source of propulsion. It also seems to possess TADS [Target Acquisition and Designation System] gear on the nose similar to modern attack helicopters such as the [[wikipedia:AH-64 Apache|AH-64 Apache]]. On each side of the cockpit is a jump-seat extending backward (doubling as a landing skid), which allows up to 2 Spartans to fire from the sides (the vehicle can actually carry four regular marines, according to the Halo novel Contact Harvest). It's slightly longer in length than the [[Covenant]] [[Banshee]], and its wingspan is larger as well.<ref>September 2007 Issue of EGM's vehicle scale chart.</ref> Unlike the Banshee, the Hornet can remain stationary in the air, but it lacks the evasive maneuvers of the Banshee and cannot train its [[weapons]] on targets.  


The controls for the Hornet appears to be similar to those of a helicopter, suggesting that as turbine-driven VTOL craft became more practical, they replaced helicopters. The Hornet is most likely used in a supporting role to larger VTOL craft, such as the [[Pelican]] Dropship or the [[Sparrowhawk]], though the latter carries heavier armaments at the expense of being unable to ferry soldiers. The Hornet is generally used in the role of a gunship, or a close air support aircraft (much like the modern-day Mil Mi-24 "Hind") as it's able to both transport soldiers and support them (like the AH-6 Little Bird).
==Overview==
===Design details===
The AV-14 is a vertical take off and landing vehicle (VTOL) that has been in service since the [[Insurrection]],<ref>'''Halo Legends''', ''Origins''</ref> at least as early as [[2524]].<ref name="enyc">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition)]]''', ''page 248''</ref><ref name="evo">'''Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe''', "Dirt", ''page 113''</ref> It serves as the UNSC's primary assault, search and reconnaissance, and close air support aircraft. The Hornet is an atmospheric craft and as such cannot be deployed by orbital vessels unless a ship rated for atmospheric entry can deliver it to the battlefield. It is easier for the Hornet to be deployed from an air base located on the surface than from a ship.


==Appearances==
The AV-14 Hornet consists of a one-man cockpit and a rear section, extending approximately one meter backward. Variant models feature a tandem seating configuration, presumably allowing a second passenger to operate the aircraft's weaponry or navigation systems.<ref>'''Halo Legends''', ''Homecoming''</ref> At the top of this rear section are a set of wings with what appear to be advanced turbofan engines mounted on gimbals at the ends, providing the Hornet's main source of propulsion. The front of the Hornet contains a target acquisition and designation system which includes cameras and sensors. On each side of the cockpit is a jump-seat extending backward that doubles as a landing skid. These skids allow up to four passengers.<ref name="harv">'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 9''</ref>
[[Image:1210056319 SpecOps Teamwork.jpg|thumb|left|A Hornet in the Halo 3 Campaign level The Covenant.]]
Hornets appear only in [[Halo 3]]. They are first seen at the beginning of [[Crow's Nest]]. Though Hornets are visible fighting Banshees for most of the early levels, they are only available for use by the player twice, both times in the [[campaign]] level [[The Covenant (Level)|The Covenant.]] In the first appearance, they are used to move quickly from one location to another, with air-to-air combat in between. Later in the mission, they prove to be particularly useful in regards to taking down two [[Scarabs]] as they can hover in position to destroy the power core or remove any [[Brutes]] and [[Grunts]] on the [[Scarab]] or on nearby vehicles.
The Hornet can be used in [[Halo 3]] [[Multiplayer]]. The default version is exclusively available in custom games. [[Avalanche]], included in the [[Legendary Map Pack]], features a snow white Hornet which will be used in matchmaking. The snow Hornet has toned-down machine guns and loses the ability to fire missiles. Bungie stated they wanted it to be less of a "flying death platform" than a suppressive support vehicle.


The Hornet will also appear in the upcoming game [[Halo Wars]] as a light recon/transport aircraft. It is capable of engaging both ground and air targets and can take extra [[marines]] on the platforms to supplement its fire power.
Although the AV-14 Hornet primarily serves as an attack craft, the Hornet can be reconfigured for a number of other roles. For example, some AV-14s are configured as dedicated troop transports. These Hornets lack the Class-2 Guided Munitions Launch System equipped by the standard model in order to improve airspeed.<ref>'''Halo 3''', multiplayer level, ''[[Avalanche]]''</ref>


==History==
===Armaments===
[[Image:Hornet war.jpg|200px|thumb|right|A Squadron of Hornets supported by a Sparrowhawk attempt to protect a number of Pelican dropships from a Scarab Tank]]
The AV-14 Hornet is armed with both anti-infantry and anti-vehicle weapon systems. The AV-14 Hornet can be configured with one of two anti-infantry systems. The first configuration contains two triple-barreled, fire-linked rotary cannons. These are located on either side above the cockpit on the leading edges of the wing. The guns fire synchronously, and can be elevated and depressed to a small degree, without affecting the flight pattern of the Hornet. The second is a single, nose-mounted [[GAU-23/AW/Linkless Feed Autocannon]] that fires .50 BMG ammunition.{{Ref/Reuse|evo}}<ref>'''Halo Wars'''</ref><ref name="wars">'''[[Halo Wars: Official Strategy Guide]]''', ''page 45''</ref> The anti-vehicle system is composed of two [[Class-2 Guided Munition Launch System]]s that are mounted on the ventral surface of the aircraft's landing skids. When triggered, each pod fires a single missile. Like the [[LAU-65D/SGM-151 missile pod]], the Class-2 GMLS is capable of achieving a target lock. In addition the Hornet can be armed with two chaff pods to counter radar-guided missiles. These are copper nickel-coated glass fibers or silver-coated nylon fibers having lengths equal to half of the anticipated radar wavelength.{{Ref/Reuse|wars}}
Hornets were used as early as [[2524]], during [[Operation: TREBUCHET]] when they were used to ferry [[Marine]] strike teams from target to target, as well as evacuating wounded men. In Halo: Contact Harvest, Sergeant Johnson used an [[M99_SASR|M99 Stanchion Gauss Rifle]] mounted on the wing of the Hornet he was riding on. It was attached to the stub-wings by a fibrous cord and he could free-aim it.  Given the recoil of this weapon, it is most likely that it was mounted on an armature or pintail mount, suggesting other weapons such as M247 GPMGs could be mounted for passenger use.  


Hornets had not been observed after that until much later, during the [[Second Battle of Earth]] in [[2552]]. They provided air cover throughout the battles at [[New Mombasa]] and [[Voi]]. Several Hornets were later brought to the [[Ark]] and fought against enemy [[Banshee]] formations during the [[Battle of the Ark]].
===Usage===
The AV-14 Hornet is known for its efficiency in combat situations; its multi-purpose role allows the vehicle to take on a wide array of missions and can perform without any major problems. In its role as an attack craft the AV-14 is very effective at hunting down and destroying armor with relative ease; the homing Class-2 GMLS can take down the toughest Covenant armor in only a few strikes, making it the UNSC's prime choice for hunting down tanks, aside from the [[AV-22 Sparrowhawk]]. Its ability to engage infantry also makes the AV-14 both an offensive and defensive aircraft; the triple-barreled rotary cannons can destroy heavily armored and heavily shielded targets with little effort, and its ability to place itself in a stationary position to lay down cover fire while a larger craft retrieves fellow infantry also allows it to perform its role as a support craft. The firepower of the craft is a major asset when escorting other aircraft which could be susceptible to ground fire into dangerous territory. Its role as a support craft is further bolstered by its ability to easily insert small strike teams into combat situations.


==Armament==
While the AV-14 Hornet has a wide variety of roles and advantages, its greatest weakness is its light armor — making it susceptible to anything larger than small arms fire.{{Ref/Reuse|enyc}} Although the Hornet is rather nimble, it lacks the maneuverability of the [[D77-TC Pelican]] and the AV-22 Sparrowhawk, which can occasionally be a liability in combat conditions. Infantry atop of vehicles landing skids are also at risk of taking enemy fire, as they have no protection at all, which is why the AV-14 Hornet is often used to insert small strike teams, but not to extract them, in combat operations.{{Ref/Reuse|evo}}<ref>'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 20''</ref> The risk of casualties from anti-aircraft fire mandates the use of more heavily armored aircraft like the D77-TC Pelican or the [[UH-144 Falcon]] for extraction.
In respect of weapons, the Hornet is similar to its [[Covenant]] cousin, featuring both anti-infantry and anti-vehicle weapons. These consist of two three-barreled retractable rotary chain guns, which seem similar to the [[AIE-486H Heavy Machinegun]], mounted on either side of the cockpit, on the underside of the wings. The anti-vehicle capabilities of the Hornet comprise of two six-missile pods on the underside of the jump seats, which fire dual missiles much like those fired by the [[Missile Pod]]; however, the missiles are weaker and easier to avoid. However, like those of the missile pod, they lock onto enemy vehicles and turrets and have a slight homing ability. Though the missiles' tracking systems aren't as good as the [[Missile Pod]], they are still capable of destroying all ground vehicles with four to six missiles. Also, given the high altitude that you are flying at, it is very likely that the missiles will come down more or less on top of the target, making them difficult to avoid in maps such as [[Sandtrap]] which have uncluttered skies and little ground cover. It may also be able to mount various turrets and special-applications weapons, but this is not possible in game. In the novel Halo: Contact Harvest, [[Johnson]] uses a gauss weapon some what like the gauss rifle on the [[gauss Warthog]].


==Armor==
==Variants==
The Hornet is very resistant to small arms fire. However, the machine gun/plasma cannon and the armaments on the Warthog are capable of doing heavy damage to it. A Gauss cannon can destroy a Hornet in three consecutive hits. [[Wraith]] mortars and Scorpion rounds are both one hit kills if they hit near the cockpit, otherwise, they will simply drain your shield. Rockets and [[Spartan Lasers]] are able to destroy Hornets with one shot. Missile Pods require three to four hits. When a Hornet sustains enough damage, the windshield will crack and shatter, leaving the pilot open to sniper fire.
*'''2531 Hornet''': Deployed by the crew of the {{UNSCShip|Spirit of Fire}} during the [[Harvest campaign]] through to the [[Battle of Trove]], this variation has a large rotary cannon built into the nose of the aircraft, rather than the two guns on later models.{{Ref/Reuse|wars}}
[[Image:Hornetthruster.jpg|thumb|left|A close up of a Hornet's propulsion system while active.]]
*'''AV-14B Attack VTOL''': Modified by the crew of UNSC ''Spirit of Fire'' for deployment against the [[Banished]], this model is used for combat reconnaissance and surprise attacks on high-priority targets. The AV-14B is armed with medium autocannons that are effective against all targets, and are particularly adept at taking out light vehicles. It features a modified airframe that is considerably blockier in shape than the base model.<ref name="art of war">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/the-art-of-war-s '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Canon Fodder: The Art of War(s)'']</ref>
*'''NMPD Hornet''': An air support variant of AV-14 utilised by the [[New Mombasa Police Department]]. This variant is painted in black and white livery, and has blue and red lights.<ref name="Air Support Hornet">[https://www.megaconstrux.com/en-us/worlds/halo/playsets/police-air-support-hornet-97429 '''Megabloks''' ''- Police Air Support Hornet'']</ref>
*'''Transport Hornet''': A transport-orientated variant of the Hornet. This variant has the missile pods removed and a white paint coating.
<gallery>
File:HWunit Hornet.png|2531 Hornet
File:HW2 Blitz Hornet.png|AV-14B Hornet
File:MEGA_NMPD_Hornet.jpg|NMPD Hornet
File:H3_Sandbox_Hornets.png|A transport Hornet (left) and a regular AV-14 (right).
</gallery>


==Hornet Versus [[Banshee]]==
==Gameplay==
The Hornet is commonly said to be far superior to its Covenant counterpart, the Banshee. In many ways, this is true. For example:
{{Main|Hornet}}
* A Hornet's rotary chain guns are more effective against vehicles than a Banshee's plasma cannons.
The Hornet is a drivable vehicle in two games including ''[[Halo 3]]'' and ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''. They are also units in ''[[Halo Wars]]'' and ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''.
* Hornets can hover, while Banshees are always moving forward slightly.
* Hornets can carry passengers, and are much harder to hijack than Banshees.
* Hornets are more durable than Banshees, offering the pilot more protection.
* Hornet's missiles have lock-on capabilities while the Fuel Rod Gun on the Banshee does not, except in Campaign, where the banshee's fuel rod cannon slightly homes in on its target.


However, Banshees do have some advantages over the Hornet:
==Trivia==
[[Image:Hornetboom.JPG|thumb|right|A Hornet explodes]]
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes}}
* A Banshee has evasive rolls and flips to avoid enemy fire. Lacking these, Hornets are easier targets.
*A hornet is an insect, in keeping with the UNSC's tradition of naming atmospheric vehicles after real animals with the exceptions of the [[GA-TL1 Longsword]], [[B-65 Shortsword]], [[F-41 Broadsword]], and [[FSS-1000 Sabre]], which are named after bladed weapons and are capable of space flight.  
* Hornets lack a boost, which can propel the Banshee across a map very quickly, or flee a battle.
*The Hornet bears a slight resemblance to its namesake insect with the "wings" growing slightly wider towards the end (like a real hornet's wing) and with the personnel jump seats mimicking the long back legs that often trail behind the posterior of the insect.
* A Banshee's ordnance can inflict more damage to a vehicle than the Hornet's rockets
*In ''Halo Wars'', when the "Wingmen" upgrade is unlocked for the Hornet, the Marines sit on the wings instead of stand as they do in ''Halo 3'', due to the scaling of the two units. Such scaling differences are common in real-time strategy games.
* Hornets cannot turn quickly, while Banshees can. If a Hornet is being fired at from the rear, it is an easy target
* Hornets are said to have 'fiddly' controls and for this reason many players prefer a banshee to a hornet
* If the glass hood of the Hornet is damaged, then then the pilot is extremely vulnerable to sniper fire.  A rather easy shot to the head from such a weapon could finish off a distracted pilot with ease. A Banshee, in comparison, is exceedingly difficult to damage with a sniper rifle.


==Halo 3 Hornet Strategies==
==Gallery==
<gallery>
File:ODST Fast roping.png|A flight of Hornets deploy ODSTs into the occupied city of Cleveland on Earth in 2552 in ''[[Halo: Uprising]]''.
File:H3_Hornet_Concept.png|An early Hornet concept for ''[[Halo 3]]'', with a gunner being placed on the back. This idea was later abandoned.
File:AV-14 Hornet.png|The AV-14 Hornet in ''Halo 3''.
File:H3 AV-14.jpg|Turnaround reference of the AV-14 Attack VTOL as seen in ''Halo 3''.
File:H3 AV-14 Hornet-crop.png|View of an unoccupied AV-14 Hornet in ''Halo 3''.
File:H3-AV14Hornet01.png|View of an AV-14 Hornet with guns pointed downward.
File:H3-AV14Hornet02.png|View of an AV-14 Hornet with Guns pointed upward.
File:Halo-3-The-Covenant-20-HORNET.jpg|A Hornet and a Pelican.
File:H3_SnowHornet.jpg|The snow-camouflaged Hornet on the map ''[[Avalanche]]''.
File:HW_Hornet_Concept.jpg|Concept art of the Hornet for ''[[Halo Wars]]''.
File:HW Renders Hornet.jpg|Hornet with a chin-mounted gun in ''Halo Wars''.
File:HW-AV14.png|A Hornet on [[Harvest]].
File:HW-AV14wingmen.png|A Hornet with two Marine passengers.
File:HW-AV14chaffpod.png|A Hornet with chaff pods.
File:Homecoming_Hornet_Concept.png|Tandem-seater variant of the AV-14 Hornet as seen in ''[[Halo Legends]]: [[Homecoming]]''.
File:AV-14 Hornet.jpg|A Hornet in the background of [[Skyline (level)|Skyline]] in ''[[Halo 4]]''.
File:H4 AV-14 Hornet.png|Close-up view of the AV-14 Hornet in ''Halo 4''.
File:H4_Hornet_Concept_1.jpg|Concept art of the ''Halo 4'' Hornet.
File:H4_Hornet_Concept_2.jpg|Concept art of the ''Halo 4'' Hornet.
File:HSA-AV14Hornet-Render.png|A cutout of a Hornet in ''Spartan Assault''.
File:Hunt for the Phantom.png|A squadron of Hornets pursue Covenant forces during the [[Battle of Draetheus V]].
File:H2AMP Hornet Render 1.jpg|Render of the Hornet model in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
File:H2AMP Hornet Render 2.jpg|Side render of the Hornet model.
File:HSS-Cinematic-Oscar Mike.jpg|A Hornet flying towards a city in ''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''.
File:SS Hornet.png|In-game model of the Hornet in ''Halo: Spartan Strike''.
File:HW2B Hornet.png|An AV-14B Hornet in the ''[[Halo Wars 2 Open Beta]]''.
File:AV-14B Halo Wars 2 Blitz Beta.png|A Trooper AV-14B Hornet in the ''[[Halo Wars 2 - Blitz Beta]]''.
File:HW2 - AV-14B Hornet.jpg|Blitz card of a Trooper AV-14B in ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''.
File:HW2 Hornets and Vulture.png|Title card art from a cut ''Halo Wars 2'' mission featuring AV-14B Hornets and an [[AC-220 Vulture]].
File:H2A Hornet Guns retracted.png|The Hornet's guns retracted on ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
File:H2A Hornet Guns deployed.png|The Hornet's guns deployed on ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
</gallery>


The Hornet is a new vehicle for [[Halo 3]], and is one of the best in the game if used correctly. In campaign, the Hornet dominates all battles it enters with its accurate and effective chain-guns, as well as its guided missiles. While in matchmaking on the level [[Avalanche|Avalanche]], however, the Hornet lost the use of its missiles, is painted a snow camouflage color scheme and is faster. However, it remains a great transport, assault, and support vehicle, and can change the face of a battle if used well. Here are a list of strategic tips for both pilots and troops riding on the wings of Hornets.
==List of appearances==
*''[[Halo: Uprising]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo 3]]''
*''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'' {{C|Halo: The Master Chief Collection only}}
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
**''[[Homecoming]]''
**''[[Origins]]''
*''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''
**''[[Dirt]]''
*''[[Halo 4]]'' {{C|Background only}}
*''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''
*''[[Halo: Mortal Dictata]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
*''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''
*''[[Halo: Last Light]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo Wars 2]]''
*''[[Halo: Legacy of Onyx]]''
*''[[Halo: Divine Wind]]''
*''[[Become]]''
**''[[Forever We Fight]]''
*''[[Halo: Anvil Accord]]'' {{Mo}}


===Strategies for pilots===
==Sources==
{{Ref/Sources}}


*The Hornet can only take so much damage before going down. Three [[Missile Pod|missile pod]] rockets or a single blast from a [[Spartan Laser|Spartan Laser]] will take one out. Therefore, if you hear that awful beeping sound signaling that you are being tracked or the charging sound of the laser, it is key to monitor how much health you have before making the decision to stay flying, or to drop out of the air. If you have full health, stay airborne no matter where you are. If you are at about half health, jump if you are over your base or a friendly area, but not if you are over an enemy base or behind enemy lines. If you are beeping red and you hear that missile pod tracking you, jump wherever you are. It is better to take your chances on the ground than to die a certain death in the air.  However if you stay with the Hornet you can deny its use to the opposing team, as it will be destroyed with you.
{{Human aircraft}}
 
{{Hornet variants}}
*Marines riding on a Hornet can point out things like enemy tanks, warthogs, banshees, etc. so the pilot can decide how best to attack the enemy vehicles.
[[Category:Drivable vehicles]]
 
*Hornets are about as fast as a [[Mongoose]]. However, since they are airborne and there are no obstacles, they are easier to hit than a Mongoose with a laser. If you are piloting or riding and see the red light or the red guiding tracker of a laser, tell your crew and drop out as fast as you can.
 
*While it is not overly recommended due to the small field of view, a passenger with a Spartan Laser or Rocket Launcher could easily replace the lack of missiles on the snow-Hornet. Even so, the fact that any would-be passengers are incredibly vulnerable to even small arms fire, this is not a recommended tactic.
 
*Like the [[Mongoose]], the Hornet can be used for rapid relocation of a sniper, and also serves an excellent flag carrier, being a more durable and harder to hit target than a Mongoose or a Warthog.
 
*Do not engage Warthogs with the Hornet unless you have a range advantage, or the element of surprise. The Warthog's turret can easily rip an overzealous Hornet to shreds. However, attacking a Wraith while in a Hornet is recommended, as the Wraith's arcing shot make it difficult to line up with a flying target and hit. Fall back if there's someone in the Wraith's turret though, it can damage you like the Hog's turret.
 
*Remember, the Hornet does not barrel roll. Therefore, when your HUD flashes, make sure to "Dive, Dive, Dive!".
 
*Skilled pilots may decide to use the Hornet much like the Pelican, in that you could use the Hornet to drop off team mates near strategic locations. Be wary if using this tactic near enemy bases, as you are more than guaranteed to get shot at.
 
==The Snow Hornet==
[[Image:Snowhornet.jpg|thumb|right|The snow-camouflaged Hornet for [[Avalanche]].]]
Bungie announced that the Legendary Map Pack will include a Snow Camouflaged Hornet. The new version of the Hornet is camouflaged white for [[Avalanche]], and also Bungie has removed its missile capabilities and weakened its chain-guns (Snow Hornet chain-guns are weaker then those of the [[Warthog]] chaingun), thus demoting the vehicle from an assault vehicle to a support/transport status.<ref>Bungie Podcast, 8-27-07</ref> This will probably even out dogfights with the Covenant Banshee, giving the Banshee a chance against this new Hornet instead of being a hovering "platform of death." During testing of the new map [[Avalanche]] it has been used as a very effective transport vehicle for teams during CTF and Assault games. It is also faster than its normal counterpart, probably to make up for the loss of firepower.
 
Also, the snow hornet has a tail behind the machine guns (if look closely) while the normal hornet does not.
 
==Trivia ==
*If you want to get better at piloting hornets in Halo 3 [[Multiplayer]], a good practice  approach is to play the level "The Covenant" on legendary from Rally Point Alpha, and strictly use your twin-machine gun turrets, not your homing missiles. This really helps if you want to improve your dogfighting skills.
*The Hornet bears a indubitable resemblance to its namesake insect with the "wings" growing slightly wider towards the end (like a real hornet's wing) and with the personnel jump seats mimicking the long back legs that often trail behind the posterior of the insect.
*The Hornet is capable of fitting two Spartans in ''[[Halo 3]]'', but  Hornets can carry four [[UNSC]] Marines for insertion operations <ref>''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]'', page 9</ref>.
*Due to the presence of a winch at the rear of the aircraft, it has been suggested that a [[M274 Ultra-Light All-Terrain Vehicle|Mongoose]] could be carried under the hull of the Hornet.
*The Hornet may be able to glide/swim on water or snow due to having a ski-like sled on the bottom.
*Unlike [[Spartans]], [[Elites]] will not hold onto the handle bars when they get into the passenger seat.
*In the November 2007, issue #76, of The Official Xbox Magazine, on page 42, a note at the bottom of the page mentions the Hornet will be seen in the upcoming [[Halo Wars]].
*The regular Hornet has twin-machine gun turrets and missiles for its weaponry. However, the 'Snow Hornet' only has the twin-machine gun turrets. [[Bungie]] stripped the "Snow Hornet" of its missiles to balance out the map, [[Avalanche (level)|Avalanche]], as having it would prove to be overpowered. How ever in [[Forge]] on the maps [[Sandtrap]] and [[Valhalla]] the Hornet is available fully armed.
*It is possible to pilot (but not fly) the wreckage of a Hornet. Just throw a spike or plasma grenade at the hornet then enter the cockpit, if timed right you will be in a wrecked Hornet. If not timed right, you'll die.
*On [[Legendary]], Hornet missiles do hardly any damage to a [[Scarab]].
*On [[Avalanche (Level)|Avalanche]], the Hornet is covered in a snow camouflauge instead of the normal green.
*In [[Halo Wars]], it seems the Hornet doesn't use it's twin miniguns, but rather a third minigun mounted directly under it's nose.
 
==Related Links ==
'''Internal'''
*[[Kestrel]]
*[[Banshee]] - The Covenant counterpart of the Hornet.
 
{{UNSC vehicles}}
{{UNSC Ships}}
{{Halo Wars UNSC Units}}

Latest revision as of 12:49, July 22, 2024

Were you looking for the M441 Hornet Remote Explosive System, a nuclear weapon used by the UNSC?
AV-14 Hornet
H2A AV-14Hornet.png
Production information

Manufacturer:

Misriah Armory[1]

Model:

AV-14

Technical specifications

Length:

9.6 metres (31 ft)[1]

Width:

8.7 metres (29 ft)[1]

Height:

4.45 metres (14.6 ft)[2]

Engine(s):

Turbofan/turbojet engine

Armament:

Crew:

One pilot

Usage

In service:

Insurrection
Human-Covenant War
Post-Covenant War conflicts

Role(s):

Close air support,[3] light troop transport, light anti-vehicle/personnel

Affiliation:

Colonial Military Authority[4]
United Nations Space Command

 

The AV-14 Hornet, more formally known as the AV-14 Attack VTOL, is a United Nations Space Command airborne assault vehicle.

Overview[edit]

Design details[edit]

The AV-14 is a vertical take off and landing vehicle (VTOL) that has been in service since the Insurrection,[5] at least as early as 2524.[6][7] It serves as the UNSC's primary assault, search and reconnaissance, and close air support aircraft. The Hornet is an atmospheric craft and as such cannot be deployed by orbital vessels unless a ship rated for atmospheric entry can deliver it to the battlefield. It is easier for the Hornet to be deployed from an air base located on the surface than from a ship.

The AV-14 Hornet consists of a one-man cockpit and a rear section, extending approximately one meter backward. Variant models feature a tandem seating configuration, presumably allowing a second passenger to operate the aircraft's weaponry or navigation systems.[8] At the top of this rear section are a set of wings with what appear to be advanced turbofan engines mounted on gimbals at the ends, providing the Hornet's main source of propulsion. The front of the Hornet contains a target acquisition and designation system which includes cameras and sensors. On each side of the cockpit is a jump-seat extending backward that doubles as a landing skid. These skids allow up to four passengers.[9]

Although the AV-14 Hornet primarily serves as an attack craft, the Hornet can be reconfigured for a number of other roles. For example, some AV-14s are configured as dedicated troop transports. These Hornets lack the Class-2 Guided Munitions Launch System equipped by the standard model in order to improve airspeed.[10]

Armaments[edit]

The AV-14 Hornet is armed with both anti-infantry and anti-vehicle weapon systems. The AV-14 Hornet can be configured with one of two anti-infantry systems. The first configuration contains two triple-barreled, fire-linked rotary cannons. These are located on either side above the cockpit on the leading edges of the wing. The guns fire synchronously, and can be elevated and depressed to a small degree, without affecting the flight pattern of the Hornet. The second is a single, nose-mounted GAU-23/AW/Linkless Feed Autocannon that fires .50 BMG ammunition.[7][11][12] The anti-vehicle system is composed of two Class-2 Guided Munition Launch Systems that are mounted on the ventral surface of the aircraft's landing skids. When triggered, each pod fires a single missile. Like the LAU-65D/SGM-151 missile pod, the Class-2 GMLS is capable of achieving a target lock. In addition the Hornet can be armed with two chaff pods to counter radar-guided missiles. These are copper nickel-coated glass fibers or silver-coated nylon fibers having lengths equal to half of the anticipated radar wavelength.[12]

Usage[edit]

The AV-14 Hornet is known for its efficiency in combat situations; its multi-purpose role allows the vehicle to take on a wide array of missions and can perform without any major problems. In its role as an attack craft the AV-14 is very effective at hunting down and destroying armor with relative ease; the homing Class-2 GMLS can take down the toughest Covenant armor in only a few strikes, making it the UNSC's prime choice for hunting down tanks, aside from the AV-22 Sparrowhawk. Its ability to engage infantry also makes the AV-14 both an offensive and defensive aircraft; the triple-barreled rotary cannons can destroy heavily armored and heavily shielded targets with little effort, and its ability to place itself in a stationary position to lay down cover fire while a larger craft retrieves fellow infantry also allows it to perform its role as a support craft. The firepower of the craft is a major asset when escorting other aircraft which could be susceptible to ground fire into dangerous territory. Its role as a support craft is further bolstered by its ability to easily insert small strike teams into combat situations.

While the AV-14 Hornet has a wide variety of roles and advantages, its greatest weakness is its light armor — making it susceptible to anything larger than small arms fire.[6] Although the Hornet is rather nimble, it lacks the maneuverability of the D77-TC Pelican and the AV-22 Sparrowhawk, which can occasionally be a liability in combat conditions. Infantry atop of vehicles landing skids are also at risk of taking enemy fire, as they have no protection at all, which is why the AV-14 Hornet is often used to insert small strike teams, but not to extract them, in combat operations.[7][13] The risk of casualties from anti-aircraft fire mandates the use of more heavily armored aircraft like the D77-TC Pelican or the UH-144 Falcon for extraction.

Variants[edit]

  • 2531 Hornet: Deployed by the crew of the UNSC Spirit of Fire during the Harvest campaign through to the Battle of Trove, this variation has a large rotary cannon built into the nose of the aircraft, rather than the two guns on later models.[12]
  • AV-14B Attack VTOL: Modified by the crew of UNSC Spirit of Fire for deployment against the Banished, this model is used for combat reconnaissance and surprise attacks on high-priority targets. The AV-14B is armed with medium autocannons that are effective against all targets, and are particularly adept at taking out light vehicles. It features a modified airframe that is considerably blockier in shape than the base model.[14]
  • NMPD Hornet: An air support variant of AV-14 utilised by the New Mombasa Police Department. This variant is painted in black and white livery, and has blue and red lights.[15]
  • Transport Hornet: A transport-orientated variant of the Hornet. This variant has the missile pods removed and a white paint coating.
  • 2531 Hornet

    2531 Hornet

  • AV-14B Hornet

    AV-14B Hornet

  • NMPD Hornet

    NMPD Hornet

  • A transport Hornet (left) and a regular AV-14 (right).

    A transport Hornet (left) and a regular AV-14 (right).

Gameplay[edit]

Main article: Hornet

The Hornet is a drivable vehicle in two games including Halo 3 and Halo 2: Anniversary. They are also units in Halo Wars and Halo Wars 2.

Trivia[edit]

Main-Legendary.png See our gameplay information related to AV-14 Hornet on its gameplay page.
Main-Superintendent.png Browse more images in this article's gallery page.
  • A hornet is an insect, in keeping with the UNSC's tradition of naming atmospheric vehicles after real animals with the exceptions of the GA-TL1 Longsword, B-65 Shortsword, F-41 Broadsword, and FSS-1000 Sabre, which are named after bladed weapons and are capable of space flight.
  • The Hornet bears a slight resemblance to its namesake insect with the "wings" growing slightly wider towards the end (like a real hornet's wing) and with the personnel jump seats mimicking the long back legs that often trail behind the posterior of the insect.
  • In Halo Wars, when the "Wingmen" upgrade is unlocked for the Hornet, the Marines sit on the wings instead of stand as they do in Halo 3, due to the scaling of the two units. Such scaling differences are common in real-time strategy games.

Gallery[edit]

  • A flight of Hornets deploy ODSTs into the occupied city of Cleveland on Earth in 2552 in Halo: Uprising.

    A flight of Hornets deploy ODSTs into the occupied city of Cleveland on Earth in 2552 in Halo: Uprising.

  • An early Hornet concept for Halo 3, with a gunner being placed on the back. This idea was later abandoned.

    An early Hornet concept for Halo 3, with a gunner being placed on the back. This idea was later abandoned.

  • The AV-14 Hornet in Halo 3.

    The AV-14 Hornet in Halo 3.

  • Turnaround reference of the AV-14 Attack VTOL as seen in Halo 3.

    Turnaround reference of the AV-14 Attack VTOL as seen in Halo 3.

  • View of an unoccupied AV-14 Hornet in Halo 3.

    View of an unoccupied AV-14 Hornet in Halo 3.

  • View of an AV-14 Hornet with guns pointed downward.

    View of an AV-14 Hornet with guns pointed downward.

  • View of an AV-14 Hornet with Guns pointed upward.

    View of an AV-14 Hornet with Guns pointed upward.

  • A Hornet and a Pelican.

    A Hornet and a Pelican.

  • The snow-camouflaged Hornet on the map Avalanche.

    The snow-camouflaged Hornet on the map Avalanche.

  • Concept art of the Hornet for Halo Wars.

    Concept art of the Hornet for Halo Wars.

  • Hornet with a chin-mounted gun in Halo Wars.

    Hornet with a chin-mounted gun in Halo Wars.

  • A Hornet on Harvest.

    A Hornet on Harvest.

  • A Hornet with two Marine passengers.

    A Hornet with two Marine passengers.

  • A Hornet with chaff pods.

    A Hornet with chaff pods.

  • Tandem-seater variant of the AV-14 Hornet as seen in Halo Legends: Homecoming.

    Tandem-seater variant of the AV-14 Hornet as seen in Halo Legends: Homecoming.

  • A Hornet in the background of Skyline in Halo 4.

    A Hornet in the background of Skyline in Halo 4.

  • Close-up view of the AV-14 Hornet in Halo 4.

    Close-up view of the AV-14 Hornet in Halo 4.

  • Concept art of the Halo 4 Hornet.

    Concept art of the Halo 4 Hornet.

  • Concept art of the Halo 4 Hornet.

    Concept art of the Halo 4 Hornet.

  • A cutout of a Hornet in Spartan Assault.

    A cutout of a Hornet in Spartan Assault.

  • A squadron of Hornets pursue Covenant forces during the Battle of Draetheus V.

    A squadron of Hornets pursue Covenant forces during the Battle of Draetheus V.

  • Render of the Hornet model in Halo 2: Anniversary.

    Render of the Hornet model in Halo 2: Anniversary.

  • Side render of the Hornet model.

    Side render of the Hornet model.

  • A Hornet flying towards a city in Halo: Spartan Strike.

    A Hornet flying towards a city in Halo: Spartan Strike.

  • In-game model of the Hornet in Halo: Spartan Strike.

    In-game model of the Hornet in Halo: Spartan Strike.

  • An AV-14B Hornet in the Halo Wars 2 Open Beta.

    An AV-14B Hornet in the Halo Wars 2 Open Beta.

  • A Trooper AV-14B Hornet in the Halo Wars 2 - Blitz Beta.

    A Trooper AV-14B Hornet in the Halo Wars 2 - Blitz Beta.

  • Blitz card of a Trooper AV-14B in Halo Wars 2.

    Blitz card of a Trooper AV-14B in Halo Wars 2.

  • Title card art from a cut Halo Wars 2 mission featuring AV-14B Hornets and an AC-220 Vulture.

    Title card art from a cut Halo Wars 2 mission featuring AV-14B Hornets and an AC-220 Vulture.

  • The Hornet's guns retracted on Halo 2: Anniversary.

    The Hornet's guns retracted on Halo 2: Anniversary.

  • The Hornet's guns deployed on Halo 2: Anniversary.

    The Hornet's guns deployed on Halo 2: Anniversary.

List of appearances[edit]

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 96
  2. ^ Halo 3, 3D model data
  3. ^ Bungie.net: Bungie Weekly Update: 3/14/08
  4. ^ Halo: Last Light
  5. ^ Halo Legends, Origins
  6. ^ a b Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition), page 248
  7. ^ a b c Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe, "Dirt", page 113
  8. ^ Halo Legends, Homecoming
  9. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest, page 9
  10. ^ Halo 3, multiplayer level, Avalanche
  11. ^ Halo Wars
  12. ^ a b c Halo Wars: Official Strategy Guide, page 45
  13. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest, page 20
  14. ^ Halo Waypoint - Canon Fodder: The Art of War(s)
  15. ^ Megabloks - Police Air Support Hornet

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Hornet variants
AV-14 variants
AV-14B variants
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