Mobitech FB-34A Lancer Redeux

Mobitech is a technologies conglomerate that produces electronics, automobiles, and firearms, as well as the Acorn Kingdom's primary single-seat multirole fighter, the FB-34A Lancer.

The Lancer was created to compliment - and counter - an American requirement for an "Advanced Tactical fighter", which eventually became the F/A-22 Raptor. Unfortunately, it fell a bit short in the increasingly important BVR department.

Mobitech's entry into a contest with rival companies Aerospace Dynamics and Aerocorp was a very light, very maneuverable fighter with Thrust Vectoring in yaw, pitch and roll. The advanced control system was a step ahead, being adjustable to match pilot skill level. A sensor jamming system was meant to confuse both radar-guided and infrared missiles. The shape of the aircraft was modeled after space-traveling "flying body" vehicles, with a pair of canted wings added. The idea was to create a high thrust- and lift-to-weight ratio, thus create a quick, fast, effective close-in dogfighter.

The disadvantages came in the BVR dogfighting department. The fighter has an average radar cross-section, and cannot achieve "Supercruise," flying above Mach 1 without afterburners, though top speed is Mach 2.5 with afterburner engaged. The fighter can use the superb AMRAAM missile, but not as effectively as the F-22, whose stealthy shape and Supercruise capability allowed it to sneak up on the Lancer in simulated dogfights. The FB-34A model has special radar with a helmet-mounted sight, increasing BVR capability by allowing a missile to be fired up to 45 degrees off boresight.

The Lancer's armament typically consists of two AIM-120 AMRAAMs, and four "Lancelet" Heatseeking missiles designed to be carried inside compartments in the Lancer's fuselage. Also provided are two 30mm Cannon, on either side of the cockpit. An underbelly tank can extend range, and the plane has internal flare and chaff dispensers. Up to six missiles or bombs can be carried on underwing pylons. The plane has Laser-guided bomb capability, and can use it in an alternate bombing role, though the heavier FB-33 "Savanna" is preferred in heavy bombing roles, while FB-34s are more often "Tank Killers," using LGB, Missile, and cannon.

The shortcomings in BVR capability are to be solved with a new FB-35 "Lancer Evolution" model, with a new, stealthier shape and more powerful engines, allowing Supercruise capability.

Despite coming short to the F-22, the Lancer is still a force to be reckoned with. In the battle against the "Jet thieves," the Lancer has bested many different fighters, even a few modern western fighters like the F-14 and F-16, in real combat. The top ARAF ace, Tyrone "Skyfox" McCloud, has a list of 28 various kills, at least 15 in the Lancer.

The Lancer is currently in full production, and, by 2010, most ARAF lightweight fighter squadrons should be equipped with either FB-34s or FB-35s, with FB-33 "Savannas" filling the heavy assault fighter requirement. Also in the works is a navalized Lancer with strengthened undercarriage and a tailhook for carrier service. The Acorn Kingdom and Mobitech remain tight-lipped on export potential, but a few Mobian countries, including Mobara and Downunda, have expressed interest in acquiring Lancers of their own, likely to be standard FB-34s, rather than FB-35 "Evos"

Vital Statistics
Crew: one
Powerplant: Two Mobitech K20-A turbofans with thrust vectoring in all directions, 23,000 lb of thrust in afterburner each
Maximum speed: Mach 2.5
Weight: approx. 20,000 lb loaded
Armament: 2 30mm cannon, four Mobitech "Lancelet" IR Missiles, up to six missiles/bombs with belly tank, eight without tank.

((OOC: Okay, I decided to re-evaluate the design of the FB-34 Lancer fighter. I literally started with a clean sheet, starting with the original concept of using a "Lifting body," like NASA's research vehicles, and adding wings and maneuvering devices. Re-designs included scaling of the cockpit to the rest of the jet, re-shaped intakes, and a more aggressive look overall. As well, I eliminated the tailhook I included on previous drawings, (Why did I include that on the Air Force version anyway?) and "Borrowed" the rear undercarriage design from the MiG 29, while the front undercarriage came from the Saab Gripen. Finally, I added a belly tank for the first time, and added a partial top view, another first. This plane is Miles Prower's "Skyfox" aircraft.))

Mobitech FB-34A Lancer, other concepts © ME
Sonic Universe References © SEGA/Archie/DiC