Mist Lynx (Koshi) H

         With enough firepower to defeat other reconnaissance ‘Mechs and enough speed to outrun almost everything else, the Koshi is a valuable addition to any army.   This ‘Mech’s Japanese name, reportedly coined by a member of the Draconis Combine’s criminal element, translates roughly as “small death,” a term without clear meaning in English.   The Koshi often leads a reconnaissance Star, but it is sometimes attached as the light element to a heavier unit.   The Beagle active probe appears to be fixed equipment on the Koshi, meaning that it is rare to see two of these ‘Mechs serving together.

         In its most common configuration, the Koshi can serve in many roles.   Combined with its excellent reconnaissance abilities, it has long-range striking power, a potent short-range weapon, and a machine gun to deal with infantry.   This ”Mech’s deadly effect on infantry may have been what earned it the name Small Death.
         Occasionally used as a combination anti-personnel weapon and artillery spotter, the Koshi-A some times marches into battle with an unusual weapons mix.   Carrying target acquisition gear to spot for friendly ‘Mechs and vehicles equipped with Arrow IV missiles, this Koshi also has equipment to shield it from all manner of enemy activity.   It has an unusual dual anti-missile system in its left arm, with enough ammunition to stay on the battlefield forever.   Its combination of double A-pods, machine gun and flamer give enemy infantry no hope of attacking the Koshi.  
         In Configuration B, the Koshi packs considerably more firepower.   Its left arm carries two medium lasers as softening-up weapons, with the follow-up wallop of double SRM-6 launchers on its right arm.   The right arm also carries a small laser.
         The Koshi is also sometimes outfitted as an electronic marvel.   Configuration C combines the fixed active probe with an added Guardian ECM system that lets the Koshi get the jump on any enemy.   An anti-missile system adds to its defenses, while the right arm carries and extended-range large and medium laser.
         Though rarely seen, Configuration D of the Koshi reportedly carries an Ultra-2 autocannon, a weapon not in wide use among the Clans.   Also carrying and extended-range medium and small laser,   this version can be more useful than the others in some situations can, but those occasions are notoriously difficult to predict.

         The Koshi has been spotted with all four warrior Clans, but it is prevalent only among the Smoke Jaguars.   The Jaguars have used it to good effect against the Draconis Combine, though it is rumored that Gunji no Kanrei Theodore Kurita has captured one, along with several other designs.