The MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark VII is the seventh major generation of the MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor and first of the MJOLNIR [GEN2] line. Presumably developed near the end of the Human-Covenant War, the Mark VII was issued to at least one of the surviving SPARTAN-II supersoldiers by January 27, 2553.[1][note 1]
Introduction
The production model of the Mk. VII is known to be more lightweight than the Mk. VI, and was produced by a different supplier than ONI's Materials Group, which produced the previous models.[1] The Mk. VII implements several unique features. Most notably, the armor contains nano-technological components, which enables the armor to repair and upgrade itself autonomously without outside influences, such as while the user is in cryo-sleep.[2] Naomi's Mark VII suit superficially resembles the original version of the Mark V,[3] which may be due to the Spartan's choice in her armor's appearance.[4]
Theoretical features
Theoretical design elements for a seventh iteration of MJOLNIR were proposed by Dr. Catherine Halsey in her personal journal in 2535;[5] how many of these features were implemented in the final product is unknown. The Mark VII appeared to have been the last planned phase of the MJOLNIR project at the time. It would have utilized a power system that made use of a combination of plasma and fusion technology, slipspace de-insertion capability, active AI transfer protocols, and limited shaping of the suit's energy shield.
"Slipspace de-insertion capability" means that a Spartan would be able to exit a vessel traveling in slipspace and re-enter normal space, similar to the Long Range Stealth Orbital Insertion Pod. Halsey described "limited shaping of the energy shield" as the ability to form "partial overlaps, airfoils, etc."[5] This would have been similar to the Forerunners' practice of shaping hard light.
Due to unexpected technological breakthroughs, some of these upgrades were implemented earlier than planned and are presumably featured in the production version of the Mark VII. For example, the Mark VI has integrated atmospheric insertion capabilities, which allow a Spartan to free-fall from space without a re-entry vehicle such as an SOEIV. However, this requires a drag chute or parachute,[6] whereas the theoretical Mark VII would have all necessary technology integrated into the suit.[5]
Note
- ^ According the the MJOLNIR Mark VI's Armory description in Halo 4, the Mark VI was the last mainline GEN1 armor system used by the SPARTAN-IIs. This means that Mark VII was the first armor of the GEN2 line.
List of appearances
- Halo: Glasslands (First appearance)
- Halo: The Thursday War
Sources
