Tai-sho TSH-DGS

         For ten years, the Draconis Combine has possessed the C3 computer system, a technological marvel designed to coordinate lance and company actions. Despite the best efforts of the DCMS, however, the system has rarely been used. The Draconis Combine has historically lacked machines that incorporate the C3, and most Combine MechWarriors are resistant to change. Many are particularly loath to abondon the samurai tradition of single combat and combine to fire on a single unit, the tactic the C3 encourages.
         However, the spectacular success of the C3 system in Operation Bulldog against the Smoke Jaguars finally overcame the reservations of Combine warriors reguarding this equipment. The deciding event seems to have occured when Tai-sa Hohiro Kurita, heir to the Combine Throne, led a C3 equipped company of the elite Genyosha regiment against the 362nd Assault Cluster on Kiamba. There, in Hecate’s Swamp, Hohiro’s forces destroyed the Assault Clusters Command Trianry. These events meant considerable profits for Independence Weaponry, as the manufacturer’s two newest designs, the Tai-sho and the Shugenja, both incorporate C3 master systems.

         The Tai-sho was intended as the centerpiece of a C3 equipped company of twelve units. By designing the Tai-sho to carry two C3 masters, Independence Weaponry produced a ‘Mech that carries maximum armor protection for its size, as well as mounting impressive firepower despite the tonnage lost to the C3 systems.
         Twin extended-range particle projector cannons, plus the Ultrra type 10 autocannon purchased from the Free Worlds League, give the Tai-sho its devastating punch. Using a standard engine rather than an extra-light model prolongs the ‘Mechs life on the battlefield and also cuts production costs considerably.

         The first Tai-Shos produced were slated for assignment to the First Genyosha, the regiment with the most C3 equipped units in the DCMS, once they returned from their efforts to finish off the Smoke Jaguars in the Deep Periphery. Units produced subsequently will be assigned to other DCMS regiments.
         To express their gratitude and to honor the heir to the Dragon, Independence Weaponry planned to give Hohiro Kurita the first Tai-sho off the assembly lines. Weather he will trade his Clan-manufactured Daishi for the new ‘Mech remains to be seen.