Research (Interceptor)

Research entries of Interceptor's UFOPedia.

Technologies

Cold Fusion

"For centuries, scientists have searched for a way to initiate a fusion reaction at room-temperature. A breakthrough in the Galactic Science Corps labs has led to a method whereby this result can easily be achieved. In addition to being a huge step forward in the field of power generation, this technology allows the development of some extremely powerful weapons."

Synthetic Elerium

"Although the Elerium cache recovered from the Cydonia base on Mars has provided Earth with all the Elerium it needs for power-generation purposes, scientists have warned that this supply won't last forever. For most non-propulsion purposes, Elerium remains banned from military use. Luckily, detailed study of this elusive mineral has finally lead to a ground-breaking discovery: for the first time ever, Galactic Science Corps scientists have synthesized Elerium in the lab. The ability to synthesize weapons-grade Elerium allows GSC scientists to freely construct Elerium-based weaponry on Frontier Outposts without tapping Earth's precious reserves."

The Galactic Science Corps

"The Galactic Science Corps is a multi-national organization that was formed shortly after the first off-world colonies were established. The goal of the GSC is pure research and discovery. Equipped with the most sophisticated exploration and analytical equipment available, which is cross-linked with state-of-the-art CyberWeb computer arrays in their labs back on Earth, GSC exploration ships and research stations continue to expand the boundaries of explored space. All off-planet X-COM operations depend on GSC's Earth-based labs for their research and analysis work."

MarSec

"Mars Security, or Marsec, is the leading manufacturer of high-tech weapons and equipment in human space. They also operate a private security force that is employed on Earth's lunar and Martian colonies. Marsec is currently the primary provider of military hardware and technical development for X-COM, and it is branching out to provide weapons and equipment to many of the most powerful military groups on Earth and in the colonies."

The Kabron Pirates

"The mass colonization of space has, over the past decade or so, led to the resurgence of a very old profession: piracy. Although dozens of small groups have plagued the supply and shipping lines between Earth and the off-world colonies since about 2058, none is as infamous as the Kabron clan. These pirates have cost Earth corporations billions of dollars, yet not a single Kabron has been captured. All attempts to eradicate the Kabron have failed. Even X-COM has been unable to bring them to justice. Space battles usually end up in a stalemate, since the Kabron employ stolen X-COM fighters as a defense force. ~The Kabron are a threat to both the economy and the safety of human space, and they must be dealt with as soon as an opportunity arises."

The First Alien War (1999-2002)

AW-I was a war fought between X-COM forces and a number of invading alien races. Starting with
animal mutilations and intermittent human abductions, alien activity steadily escalated, eventually
threatening the continued existence of humanity. Striking from hidden bases throughout the world,
X-COM soldiers managed to maintain some semblance of order, keeping the alien menace in check
until the invaders' base of operations could be located. In a final, cataclysmic battle, a squadron
of X-COM soldiers invaded the aliens' base at Cydonia on Mars, killing all the inhabitants and
neutralizing the central Brain that controlled the alien invasion force.

The Second Alien War (2041-2046)

AW-II was a war fought between X-COM forces and a number of aquatic alien races beneath the surface
of Earth's oceans. These aliens, apparently in cryo-stasis for thousands of years, were awakened
by an automated signal sent from the alien base at Cydonia at the end of the First Alien War in
2002. The signal activated the alien city of T'leth, hidden in the Sigsbee Deep in the Gulf of
Mexico, unleashing the horde of aquatic aliens therein. Fighting a long and arduous battle, X-COM
finally located and destroyed T'leth. The eradication of the alien city ended the invasion, but
with grave results. The resulting cataclysmic explosion heavily contaminated Earth's atmosphere,
wreaking ecological havoc that continues to plague Earth to this day.

Mega-Primus

A social and ecological restoration project conceived and backed by the major corporations of
Earth. Mega-Primus is the prototype for the ultimate human habitat -- self-sustaining, pollution-
free, and safe. The construction of this virtual utopia is years behind schedule due to the lack of
sufficient raw materials on Earth and at her near-space colonies. If all goes according to plan,
the corporate mining Outposts in the Frontier should supply the raw materials needed to complete
the Mega-Primus project.

Black holes

"Black holes are the remnants of collapsed giant stars. The immense mass of the star is compressed into such a small volume that anything -- even light -- that passes within a certain distance (the "Event Horizon") is pulled in by the incredible gravity. Depending on the star's original mass and the amount of mass it has collected since collapsing, the event horizon can be smaller than a millimeter in diameter or larger than a star. Black holes are dangerous navigational hazards and should be avoided if at all possible. The enormous gravitational forces near a black hole make space flight extremely hazardous. Even ship with advanced drives cannot escape if they wander beyond the event horizon." 

Asteroid fields

"Asteroid fields are an extremely important find for a corporation. Usually mineral-rich, asteroid fields are much easier to mine than planets since the mineral deposits are, for the most part, already exposed. Because the minerals are so easily accessible, corporations establish four OPPs in an asteroid field instead of the usual one. Asteroid fields present a very real navigational hazard, and caution should be exercised when traveling in these regions to avoid collisions." 

X-COM SHIPS AND INSTALLATIONS

X-1A Lightning II Interceptor

"The X-1A Lightning II was designed specifically for patrol duty in the Frontier. Built by the Transtellar corporation, the Lightning II is equipped with modular weapon hard points and equipment bays to allow for the easy upgrade of armament and other systems. Although somewhat vulnerable defensively, this interceptor is by far the fastest available to X-COM pilots."

Superdynamics S-2 Firestar Interceptor

"The S-2 Firestar interceptor was developed in response to the need for a more versatile craft. While still agile enough to be a good match for most alien saucers in a dogfight, the S-2 has tri-titanium hull plating and added weapons capacity also make it an effective attacker - even against larger, well defended targets such as alien mining outposts and ore processing facilities. Although capable of using the older gravity wave engines, the Firestar performs best when equipped with the newer Gravity Induction Drive."

Marsec M-3 Super Avenger Interceptor

"The M-3 Super Avenger is the ultimate fighting craft available in the Frontier. Using Alien Hull Alloys, Marsec was able to create a tough, powerful bomber capable of going head-to-head with heavily-armed alien targets for extended periods of time. The added weapons hard points -- including one that is capable of mounting a special munitions rack for oversized payloads -- make it a formidable adversary for larger targets. The M-3 also has surprising agility in a dogfight when equipped with the new Graviton Pulse Drive system."

Cybermove Systems Star Ranger

"Terran Freighter ~The Cybermove Systems Star Ranger has been in service for a number of years. A space-going upgrade to the venerable Sky Ranger transport, the Star Ranger was originally designed to move equipment from Earth to her in-system colonies. Upgraded for hyper-light travel, these vessels now serve effectively in deep space as well."

Patton-Class Research Cruiser

"The research vessels used by the Galactic Science Corps are retired military vessels left over from the years following the Second Alien War. Now, with their weapons replaced by advanced sensor and detection equipment and their primitive sub-light engines replaced with hyper-light drive units, Patton-class vessels should continue to serve the GSC well into the next decade. Many ships of this class have also been drafted into private service by some of Earth's wealthier corporations."

Earth Outpost

"The corporate Outposts in the Frontier coordinate the activity of Ore Processing Plants (OPPs) in a star system and act as a repository for the minerals they collect. The raw materials gathered here are either shipped to Earth or used in the construction of supplies for X-COM bases in the Frontier. Outposts also serve as recruiting points for potential X-COM personnel. A pool of potential pilots can always be found stationed at Frontier Outposts, awaiting their chance to serve. Although Outposts are equipped with minimal shields and armament, their chance of surviving a full-scale alien assault is minimal at best. X-COM's funding and livelihood depend heavily on these facilities, so their protection is X-COM's primary goal."

Corporate Ore Processing Plant

"Ore Processing Plants (OPPs) are orbital stations manned by a small crew of civilian technicians. These facilities collect raw materials and ship them to the local corporate Outpost. Each OPP in an Outpost system makes a vital contribution to the wealth and efficiency of the corporate operation. When an OPP is lost to an alien attack, X-COM funding and supply availability from an Outpost system can decrease dramatically. Though they possess limited armament, OPPs are incapable of effectively defending themselves from a prolonged alien attack. They must be protected at all costs."

GSC Science Station

"The Galactic Science Corps operates a number of research outposts in Earth colony areas, conducting research on a wide variety of subjects -- from astronomical studies to xenobiology. The GSC is strictly a civilian operation; there is no military presence on a science station, nor is the base equipped with any offensive weaponry. There are several GSC Science stations in the Frontier region."

Kabron Pirate Base

"The Kabron pirates build their bases from pilfered equipment and materials acquired from raids on whatever trade routes they plague. Thus, it is a rarity to find two pirate bases that look alike. Although no pirate activity has yet been recorded in the Frontier region, the possibility of a hidden base in the area is not entirely unlikely."

Corporate Interceptors

"Corporate Outposts and OPPs are not particularly well equipped to handle an enemy attack. Normally, the corporations operating in the Frontier depend on X-COM fighter support for protection - however, some corporations take precautions of their own. Corporate interceptors use the same hull types as those operated by X-COM. These craft, which are almost exclusively stationed near Outposts and Ore Processing Plants, are flown by mercenary pilots with adequate but unspectacular combat skills. In a particularly fierce attack, corporate interceptors can be helpful allies to a defending X-COM fleet."

WEAPONS

Laser Cannon

"Of all the weapons that have come and gone since the First Alien War, none has been as useful and long-lived as the basic Laser Cannon. The latest iteration of this weapon, specially modified to be mounted on the fighters in service on the Frontier, is almost identical in function to those used on atmospheric interceptors in AW-I. This is a simple, readily available, and relatively inexpensive weapon."

Heavy Laser

"Advanced research in the field of lasers has led to several interesting theories regarding the improvement of the basic Laser Cannon. The Heavy Laser focuses the beam through a tiny Elerium crystal, resulting in significantly increased firepower. Unfortunately, the Elerium-focused beam requires far more energy than its standard counterpart, making the Heavy Laser less energy-efficient than other laser-based weapons. The rate of fire is also quite slow for this weapon."

Gatling Laser

"The Gatling Laser is a concept derived from Advanced Laser research. By utilizing an advanced pre-stage coolant array charged with a lithium Bose condensate, this weapon can fire a pulsed laser beam at twice the rate of a standard Laser Cannon. This makes the Gatling Laser one of the quickest weapons available. Although the damage inflicted by each individual shot is somewhat less than that of the standard Laser Cannon, the overall damage potential of this weapon is much greater."

Tracer Cannon

"The Tracer Cannon is a new twist on old technology. The added accuracy of the Emissions Targeting System, combined with advanced laser technology has allowed Marsec weapon engineers to create this powerful, continuous beam energy weapon. The Tracer Cannon deals continuous damage as long as the beam remains in contact with the target. Ships must be equipped with the Emissions Targeting System or better in order to fire this weapon."

Tracking Tracer Cannon

"The Tracking Tracer Cannon is an excellent example of how to use alien technology to significantly increase the effectiveness of existing X-COM equipment. Modified to take advantage of the Advanced Autonomous Targeting System (AATS), the Tracking Tracer Cannon - once it successfully connects with a target -- automatically tracks that target as long as it remains in the weapon's firing arc. Though it sacrifices some firepower in favor of advanced targeting capabilities, this weapon is much more practical and effective than its manually-targeted predecessor."

Phase Cannon

"The Phase Cannon is an alien weapon that focuses a pulsed particle beam through an emitter array that automatically alters the frequency and phase of the beam's pulse. This emitter array, which is linked into the ship's passive sensors, changes the character of the Phase Cannon's energy beam to be dissonant with that of a target vessel's shields. The result is an energy beam that is extremely effective at eliminating a target's shields."

Plasma Pulse Cannon

"This is the most commonly encountered alien beam weapon, similar in many respects to the Plasma Beams used on alien ships during the First Alien War. Plasma Pulse Cannons produce an energy beam that is measurably more powerful than a standard Laser Cannon with little or no difference in power consumption per-shot."

Psi Blaster

"This insidious alien weapon amplifies psionic energy and projects it as a coherent beam which can easily break down a pilot's psionic defenses, causing him to panic or become the unwitting slave of a controlling alien presence. The psionic defensive systems that have been integrated into all X-COM craft since shortly after the Second Alien War seem to have no effect against the Psi Blaster. Luckily, this device can be modified and used as a weapon on X-COM ships as well, allowing us to give the aliens a taste of their own technology."

Tachyon Pulser

"It is quite evident that, in order to succeed, all enemy craft must be studied as closely as possible. In order to do so, each alien ship type must be captured intact and dismantled component by component. The Tachyon Pulser is designed to make the task of capturing alien ships easier and more practical. This weapon affects only a target's shields and engines, the goal being to render the target helpless. Once disabled, an alien craft can easily be towed back to an X-COM base and shipped back to Earth for examination."

X-winder Missile

"X-winder Missiles are the mainstay of the X-COM missile arsenal. A modern equivalent to 20th century heat-seeking missiles, X-winders lock onto the infrared emissions of a target's engine exhaust. While not powerful enough to be practical against large, heavily-shielded targets, X-winders are quite effective in ship-to-ship combat."

X-winder Missile Launcher

"The launcher rack for X-winder Missiles. Each rack can carry five missiles."

Fusion Base Buster Missile

"The Fusion Missile was designed for one purpose: mass destruction. Although too slow to be used effectively in ship-to-ship combat, the "Base Buster" lives up to its name when used in bombing runs against large targets."

Fusion Missile Launcher

"The launcher rack for Fusion "Base Buster" Missiles. Each rack can carry two missiles."

Permeator Missile

"The study of alien shield technology has provided a working knowledge of how a ship's shields can be temporarily disrupted. Milliseconds before a Permeator Missile hits a target's shields, the warhead generates a highly-focused graviton pulse, which temporarily disrupts a section of the shield bubble. This allows the missile to pass directly through the shields and deliver its payload directly to the ship's armor, hull, and internal systems. Ships must be equipped with the Emissions Targeting System or better in order to fire this weapon."

Permeator Missile Launcher

"The launcher rack for Permeator Missiles. Each rack can carry three missiles."

Doppelganger Missile

"The Doppelganger Missile is the ultimate decoy. When fired, it uses holographic and psionic projectors to create an exact image of the ship from which it was launched. The missile then proceeds to make aggressive attack runs at the targeted vessel, all the while behaving and performing as if it were an actual ship. This performance continues until the missile runs out of fuel, at which time it reverts to its original form. Ships must be equipped with the Advanced Autonomous Targeting System (AATS) in order to fire this weapon."

Doppelganger Missile Launcher

"The launcher rack for Doppelganger Missiles. Each rack can carry one missile."

Nova Bomb

"The Nova Bomb is the most devastating weapon ever created by humans. Instead of targeting ships or other objects, the Nova Bomb targets stars. When fired, the missile slowly accelerates to hyper-light speed. When it reaches the target star, it buries itself in the star's fusion core. Once inside, the Nova Bomb detonates, setting off a chain reaction that causes the star to explode, destroying everything in the system (including the star itself). This weapon holds such far-reaching destructive potential that the scientists who developed the device have placed a bill before Earth's government proposing that research data on this weapon be stricken from all official records and the technology outlawed for all time. Ships must be equipped with the Advanced Autonomous Targeting System (AATS) in order to fire this weapon."

Nova Bomb Launcher

"Launcher for the Nova Bomb. This apparatus is so massive that it can only be mounted on a Super Avenger. Capable of carrying one Nova Bomb."

Elerium Torpedo

"The Elerium Torpedo is the most basic type of alien missile. It has a longer flight time and a slightly more powerful warhead than the X-winder missile."

Elerium Torpedo Launcher

"The launcher rack for the Elerium torpedo. Each rack can carry four missiles."

Enveloping Fusion Torpedo

"This alien weapon is truly unique. When the torpedo reaches its target, the warhead generates a powerful containment field around both the target and the missile itself. The warhead then explodes inside the field. The effect is that the power of the explosion is distributed equally over the entire surface of the target (or its shields). Ships must be equipped with the Emissions Targeting System or better in order to fire this weapon."

Enveloping Fusion Torpedo Launcher

"The launcher rack for the Enveloping Fusion Torpedo. Each rack can carry three missiles."

Sidestep Missile

"One of the problems faced when targeting alien ships is their high maneuverability. The aliens' use of Vector Control Thrusters allows their ships to outmaneuver even the fastest missiles. To counter this ability, the Sidestep Missile incorporates a small Vector Control unit and an advanced targeting gyro that homes in on the electromagnetic emissions of the target vessel. The result is a missile that can easily track almost any target. Ships must be equipped with the Emissions Targeting System or better in order to fire this weapon."

Sidestep Missile Launcher

"The launcher rack for the Sidestep Missile. Each rack can carry four missiles."

Passive Cloaking Torpedo

"This weapon combines long flight time with cloaking technology to create a weapon that is extremely difficult to detect - until it's too late. The Passive Cloaking Torpedo is not fired; instead, it simply drops from the launcher. Within a second of its release, the torpedo cloaks, hiding itself from detection. While cloaked, it passively scans the area for a valid target. When an enemy ship comes within one kilometer, the missile locks onto the target vessel, de-cloaks, and accelerates to attack speed. If the missile loses tracking, it re-cloaks and begins scanning for another target. Ships must be equipped with the Advanced Autonomous Targeting System (AATS) in order to fire this weapon."

Passive Cloaking Torpedo Launcher

"The launcher rack for the Passive Cloaking Torpedo. Each rack can carry two missiles."

Parallax Torpedo

"The warhead and propulsion system of the Parallax Torpedo are almost identical to those of the Elerium Torpedo. What makes this weapon unique is the inclusion of a psionic projector that generates two false visual and sensor images of the missile at random locations within a ten-meter sphere of the actual missile. This makes it tremendously difficult for the target to lock onto the missile and destroy it. Ships must be equipped with the Emissions Targeting System or better in order to fire this weapon."

Parallax Torpedo Launcher

"The launcher rack for the Parallax Torpedo. Each rack can carry three missiles."

TECHNOLOGIES

Advanced Lasers

"Continued study in the field of lasers has produced a number of techniques to improve the performance of the venerable X-COM Laser Cannon. One involves channeling the beam through a small Elerium crystal, which significantly improves the weapon's beam strength. Another technique involves the use of a special coolant array which allows the beam to be cycled at much higher speeds."

Alien Hull Alloys

"Study of the remains of more advanced alien ships shows that the aliens have apparently abandoned Tri-Titanium alloys in favor of a lighter, stronger material. Although there is no trace of this alien metal on any of the explored planets in Terran space, the Galactic Science Corps has been able to replicate the molecular structure of the alloy under laboratory conditions. Using this material, Marsec has developed a new interceptor design - the M-3 Super Avenger. Further study of the new alien material could lead to more efficient spacecraft armor."

Cold Fusion

"For centuries, scientists have searched for a way to initiate a fusion reaction at room-temperature. A breakthrough in the Galactic Science Corps labs has led to a method whereby this result can easily be achieved. In addition to being a huge step forward in the field of power generation, this technology allows the development of some extremely powerful weapons."

Hyper-Dimensional Data Transfer

"Examination of captured alien saucer components has given us insight into their communications technology. Alien comm systems generate signals whose transmission speed far exceeds messages generated by X-COM hyperwave technology. This is achieved by channeling signals through a tiny dimensional rift. This technology has allowed us to develop Downlinks capable of downloading research data at a much faster rate."

Microbit Compression

"By examining the communication systems of the "Spectre" saucer, the Galactic Science Corps has found that the aliens further increase data transmission speed by compressing the data prior to transmission and decompressing it on reception. The alien compression algorithm is capable of reducing file size by up to 99.9 percent. By adapting this technology to our existing equipment, we can now produce a Downlink Module capable of downloading data at speeds never before thought possible."

Psionic Amplification

"Although the principles of Psionic Amplification were studied as far back as the First Alien War, this technology was never developed to its fullest extent. Study of captured Psi Blasters has given us new insight into the design of psionic weaponry, and may lead to new applications of this technology."

Psionic Holography

"The technology used in alien Parallax Torpedoes to project false psionic images to confuse pilots spurred GSC scientists to attempt similar projection techniques to simulate larger objects. Unfortunately, the power requirements for such projections were found to be prohibitive. Now, with the discovery of alien psionic amplification techniques, the Galactic Science Corps has been able to generate convincing, ship-sized psionic holograms under laboratory conditions. Confidence is high that this technology can be developed into a practical weapon."

Psionic Projection

"Study of the tiny psionic projectors built into alien Parallax Torpedoes has revealed the techniques used to create convincing psionic images of small objects over fairly long distances. GSC scientists are continuing research in this field to determine whether the technology has more far-reaching implications."

Solar Fusion

"In an effort to fully understand fusion reactions, Galactic Science Corps scientists have turned to the study of the reactions that take place in a star's core. By cataloguing and recording stellar core activity, we could someday gain the knowledge necessary to initiate and control fusion reactions at will."

Synthetic Elerium

"Although the Elerium cache recovered from the Cydonia base on Mars has provided Earth with all the Elerium it needs for power-generation purposes, scientists have warned that this supply won't last forever. For most non-propulsion purposes, Elerium remains banned from military use. Luckily, detailed study of this elusive mineral has finally lead to a ground-breaking discovery: for the first time ever, Galactic Science Corps scientists have synthesized Elerium in the lab. The ability to synthesize weapons-grade Elerium allows GSC scientists to freely construct Elerium-based weaponry on Frontier Outposts without tapping Earth's precious reserves."

Trans-Dimensional Fields

"The most advanced alien ships incorporate equipment that allows them to generate an electroplasmic field around the ship that - in a strictly limited local volume -- breaches the barrier between our universe and that of the aliens. This ability, which is actually a radical extension of the alien trans-dimensional communication technology, seems to have widespread applications, including shielding and propulsion systems."

Tri-Titanium Construction

"Although the hulls of alien spacecraft appear to the naked eye to be organic in nature, they are actually composed of a densely bonded molecular compound of titanium and various alien materials. The result is an extremely strong, bulky, material that is well suited to spacecraft construction. The discovery and analysis of this alien material has led to the development of a more powerful interceptor - the S-2 Firestar - and should allow the construction of more effective armor plating for spacecraft."

The Galactic Science Corps

"The Galactic Science Corps is a multi-national organization that was formed shortly after the first off-world colonies were established. The goal of the GSC is pure research and discovery. Equipped with the most sophisticated exploration and analytical equipment available, which is cross-linked with state-of-the-art CyberWeb computer arrays in their labs back on Earth, GSC exploration ships and research stations continue to expand the boundaries of explored space. All off-planet X-COM operations depend on GSC's Earth-based labs for their research and analysis work."

Marsec

"Mars Security, or Marsec, is the leading manufacturer of high-tech weapons and equipment in human space. They also operate a private security force that is employed on Earth's lunar and Martian colonies. Marsec is currently the primary provider of military hardware and technical development for X-COM, and it is branching out to provide weapons and equipment to many of the most powerful military groups on Earth and in the colonies."

The Kabron Pirates

"The mass colonization of space has, over the past decade or so, led to the resurgence of a very old profession: piracy. Although dozens of small groups have plagued the supply and shipping lines between Earth and the off-world colonies since about 2058, none is as infamous as the Kabron clan. These pirates have cost Earth corporations billions of dollars, yet not a single Kabron has been captured. All attempts to eradicate the Kabron have failed. Even X-COM has been unable to bring them to justice. Space battles usually end up in a stalemate, since the Kabron employ stolen X-COM fighters as a defense force. ~The Kabron are a threat to both the economy and the safety of human space, and they must be dealt with as soon as an opportunity arises."

The First Alien War (1999-2002)

"AW-I was a war fought between X-COM forces and a number of invading alien races. Starting with animal mutilations and intermittent human abductions, alien activity steadily escalated, eventually threatening the continued existence of humanity. Striking from hidden bases throughout the world, X-COM soldiers managed to maintain some semblance of order, keeping the alien menace in check until the invaders' base of operations could be located. In a final, cataclysmic battle, a squadron of X-COM soldiers invaded the aliens' base at Cydonia on Mars, killing all the inhabitants and neutralizing the central Brain that controlled the alien invasion force."

The Second Alien War (2041-2046)

"AW-II was a war fought between X-COM forces and a number of aquatic alien races beneath the surface of Earth's oceans. These aliens, apparently in cryo-stasis for thousands of years, were awakened by an automated signal sent from the alien base at Cydonia at the end of the First Alien War in 2002. The signal activated the alien city of T'leth, hidden in the Sigsbee Deep in the Gulf of Mexico, unleashing the horde of aquatic aliens therein. Fighting a long and arduous battle, X-COM finally located and destroyed T'leth. The eradication of the alien city ended the invasion, but with grave results. The resulting cataclysmic explosion heavily contaminated Earth's atmosphere, wreaking ecological havoc that continues to plague Earth to this day."

Mega-Primus

"A social and ecological restoration project conceived and backed by the major corporations of Earth. Mega-Primus is the prototype for the ultimate human habitat -- self-sustaining, pollution-free, and safe. The construction of this virtual utopia is years behind schedule due to the lack of sufficient raw materials on Earth and at her near-space colonies. If all goes according to plan, the corporate mining Outposts in the Frontier should supply the raw materials needed to complete the Mega-Primus project."

Black Holes

"Black holes are the remnants of collapsed giant stars. The immense mass of the star is compressed into such a small volume that anything -- even light -- that passes within a certain distance (the "Event Horizon") is pulled in by the incredible gravity. Depending on the star's original mass and the amount of mass it has collected since collapsing, the event horizon can be smaller than a millimeter in diameter or larger than a star. Black holes are dangerous navigational hazards and should be avoided if at all possible. The enormous gravitational forces near a black hole make space flight extremely hazardous. Even ship with advanced drives cannot escape if they wander beyond the event horizon."

Asteroid Fields

"Asteroid fields are an extremely important find for a corporation. Usually mineral-rich, asteroid fields are much easier to mine than planets since the mineral deposits are, for the most part, already exposed. Because the minerals are so easily accessible, corporations establish four OPPs in an asteroid field instead of the usual one. Asteroid fields present a very real navigational hazard, and caution should be exercised when traveling in these regions to avoid collisions."

EQUIPMENT

Standard Armor

"Hull Integrity: +250 (Fore and Aft) ~For heavy combat situations, all X-COM craft can be fitted with an additional layer of armor plating. Standard armor consists of a series of titanium steel plates which are attached to built-in connection points on an interceptor's hull. Although the interceptor's flight performance is somewhat degraded by the armor's weight, the increase in hull integrity is usually considered worth the trade-off."

Tri-Titanium Armor

"Hull Integrity: +375 (Fore and Aft) ~Study of alien craft has led to a number of useful construction techniques that can be used to improve X-COM craft. One such innovation is Tri-Titanium Armor. This composite plating, which is molecularly bonded directly to the interceptor's hull, is much denser than Standard Armor, and provides a great deal more protection. One drawback is the weight -- tri-titanium alloy is significantly heavier than normal titanium steel plating. This tends to detrimentally affect the ship's performance."

Trans-Dermal Armor

"Hull Integrity: +425 (Fore and Aft) ~The light-weight Alien Alloys now used to construct our interceptor craft also have applications in the field of protective armor. While Alien Alloys are significantly lighter than titanium, they are a great deal stronger than even tri-titanium. The GSC has been able to fuse several layers of this miraculous material into the best armor plating available to date. Trans-Dermal Armor is the ultimate combat protection available -- maximum deflection with minimal effect on craft maneuverability."

Deflector Shield

"Shield Protection: 300 (Fore and Aft) ~The type-1 Marsec Deflector Shield generator provides an additional layer of protection in addition to armor and hull plating. The generator projects a globular energy field around the interceptor which is capable of deflecting many projectile and energy-based attacks."

Electroplasmic Shield

"Shield Protection: 400 (Fore and Aft) ~Examination of captured alien defensive equipment has revealed that they possess a shielding technology substantially more powerful than X-COM's standard Deflector Shields. The Electroplasmic Shield combines energy projection and particle beam technologies to project a particle/energy deflector that is significantly more effective than standard Deflector Shields."

Trans-Dimensional Shield

"Shield Protection: 500 (Fore and Aft) ~The Trans-Dimensional Shield uses truly unique technology to provide additional shield protection. While the field generated is nearly identical to that of more primitive shielding systems, the Trans-Dimensional Shield is able to dissipate a portion of every attack that impacts the shield bubble into another dimension. In addition to the substantial physical protection, this advanced shielding system also provides a medium-level anti-psionic field that protects against Psi Blaster attacks."

Accumulator Shields

"Apparently, the aliens' Shade fighters employ a new shielding technology that is far superior to those used on their other craft. Accumulator Shields operate exactly like conventional shielding systems when it comes to deflecting missiles and explosive energy. However, when a beam weapon hits this type of shield, part of the beam's energy is actually absorbed into the shield generator, increasing the shield's defensive strength."

Ship Damage Control Computer

"Many alien spacecraft are equipped with a computer sub-system that coordinates the automatic repair of all ship systems while in combat. While all X-COM ship systems are self-repairing, they lack the level of coordination and efficiency provided by this alien system. GSC scientists have been able to replicate this technology for X-COM use. When installed on an interceptor, the Ship Damage Control Computer increases in-flight repair rates by 100 percent."

Conversion Drive

"Static Thrust: 5,400 kg ~The Conversion Drive is the standard propulsion system for X-COM craft. The technology is derived from study of alien drive systems used during the First Alien War. The power source generates gravity waves which are, in turn, converted into thrust. While this is the pinnacle of human star drive technology, observations of alien craft indicate that their current drive systems are far more sophisticated."

Gravity/Induction Drive

"Static Thrust: 11,000 kg ~This is the basic drive system used in current alien spacecraft. While similar to the older gravity wave system in many ways, the Gravity/Induction Drive boosts engine thrust output by channeling the gravity waves through a bio-electric induction coil. The result is an engine roughly the same size as a standard Conversion engine, but capable of driving larger, heavier ships -- or driving small ships at extremely high speeds! All X-COM interceptor hulls can easily be adapted to accept this new drive system. ~In addition to its real-space capabilities, the Gravity/Induction engine decreases a craft's fuel consumption in hyperspace."

Graviton Pulse Drive

"Static Thrust: 16,000 kg ~The pinnacle of alien drive system development, the Graviton Pulse Drive injects a pulsed stream of gravitons into the gravity wave flow chamber. The graviton stream stabilizes and controls the reaction, making the system nearly 100 percent efficient. The resultant increase in thrust is quite dramatic. Although it can be used on any type of vessel, the Graviton Pulse Drive is particularly well-suited to ships of large mass. ~Hyperspace fuel efficiency of ships equipped with Graviton Pulse engines is extremely high, allowing ships to travel significantly farther from their home bases."

Vector Control Thrusters

"Alien ships have been found to have a highly developed directional control system that allows them to change directions almost instantly. This thruster system accounts for much of the maneuverability difference between alien and X-COM craft. Fortunately, Marsec has developed Vector Control Thrusters -- a system that closely emulates the alien thruster array. X-COM ships equipped with this device are able to move laterally - port and starboard - as well as straight up and down. When used in conjunction with the ship's main engines, this adds a new degree of combat maneuverability to any interceptor craft. This technology can also be adapted for use in a missile weapon."

Dimension Jump Drive

"Until now, the aliens' ability to enter and exit black holes was a complete mystery. This feat is accomplished through the use of the Dimension Jump Drive. This system is apparently capable of generating a localized field that creates a temporary Einstein-Rosen bridge between a black hole in our universe and a similar body in a parallel universe. As long as the drive remains active, the ship generating the dimension jump field is able to cross the bridge and emerge on the other side, unaffected by the tidal and gravitic forces of the black hole. Despite the best efforts of GSC scientists, the power requirements of this device are much too high to allow it to be adapted to X-COM interceptors. However, the GSC is currently producing a prototype unit that should function on a large interstellar vessel. The discovery of this device is an important step toward defeating the aliens on their own turf."

Standard Targeting System

"Optimum Targeting Range: 3 km or less ~The standard targeting system for X-COM craft is, essentially, an advanced version of the radar and heat-seeking targeting systems used in the late 20th century. The sensor portion of the system uses a continuous OPDAR -- Optical Detecting and Ranging - scan to detect and track all ships and installations within a 70,000 km radius of the ship. The targeting system handles weapons targeting for all basic missile and beam weapons."

Emissions Targeting System

"Optimum Targeting Range: 4 km or less ~Study of alien targeting systems has revealed that they use a much more sophisticated method of detecting and locking onto targets than we do. Instead of relying on reflected optical signals and heat images to obtain a lock, the Emissions Targeting System actually detects the plasma residue emitted by the target's engines and reactor systems. This faster and more accurate targeting method allows for the development of a new generation of weapons and subtly increases the effectiveness of existing weapons systems."

Advanced Autonomous Targeting System

"Optimum Targeting Range: 5 km or less ~The AATS is the logical evolution of alien targeting technology. Not only does this targeting device detect plasma residue, it can actually sense minute differences in the plasma emitted by various targets. Once the system has catalogued the sub-atomic plasma "fingerprint" of the target, it feeds the information to the active weapon system. Weapons designed specifically to take advantage of this technology are among the most deadly available. Of course, this system has been modified so that all existing weapon systems are compatible."

Cloaking Device

"The Cloaking Device surrounds the ship on which it is mounted with a gravity wave bubble with in which it generates a trans-dimensional field. The field shifts the ship slightly out of phase with our universe, rendering it invisible to both visual and sensor scans. This system is not perfect, since cloaked ships can eventually be detected due to the spatial distortion caused by the device itself. However, when used sparingly, the Cloaking Device can be a valuable tactical tool. It should be noted that, due to power consumption issues and the field's high interior reflectivity, ships cannot target and fire weapons while cloaked."

ECM Pod

"Effectiveness: 10% ~Range of Effect: .25 km ~Study of the aliens' tracking and targeting capabilities has resulted in the creation of an electromagnetic countermeasures (ECM) system that should prove effective against many alien missile weapons. The ECM Pod emits a false plasma residue signature some distance from the actual location of the ship, while at the same time using a graviton field to mask the ship's actual plasma exhaust. ECM Pods have a built-in friend-or-foe recognition system that allows them to selectively jam only enemy-controlled missiles. While not one hundred percent effective, the ECM Pod can be of great use in situations where missile combat is prevalent."

Advanced ECM Pod

"Effectiveness: 25% ~Range of Effect: .5 km ~Based on further study of electromagnetic countermeasures and alien targeting technology, the Advanced ECM Pod incorporates several new countermeasures, including a phase-shifting algorithm that constantly alters the frequency of the ship's plasma signature. This design has been proven to work against both new and old missile designs."

Tractor Beam

"Range: .25 km ~The Tractor Beam is, essentially, an inverted particle beam that acts as a tow rope composed of coherent energy. This beam, which is targeted in the same way as standard beam weapons, envelops the target and establishes an energy link between it and the beam generator. It is recommended that the target vessel be disabled prior to establishing a Tractor Beam link, since serious structural and engine damage can result from a Tractor Beam tug-of-war. In addition, the towing ship needs to have sufficient engine power and mass to overcome the inertia of the target. Because Tractor Beams consume a great deal of energy, the towing ship cannot fire beam weapons while the Tractor Beam is engaged."

X-COM BASE MODULES

Main Base Structure

"The Main Base Structure is the core of any X-COM base. It contains the hardware housings and power systems required for the attachment of up to 33 ancillary modules. The Main Base Structure is delivered to the site of a new base fully-assembled and ready to receive additional modules."

Hangar Module

"A Hangar Module provides mooring facilities for up to three X-COM interceptors of any type. In addition to housing the ships themselves, Hangar Modules house the equipment and crews necessary to rearm, refit, repair, and maintain the ships. Each X-COM base can have up to three Hangar Modules."

Personnel Module

"A Personnel Module provides living quarters, food preparation facilities, entertainment complexes, and all of the other amenities necessary to house five pilots."

Cargo Module

"Cargo Modules provide storage space for all base equipment, including weapons, ammunition and other supplies. Each Cargo Module can store up to 1000 Cargo Space Units (CSUs) of equipment."

Probe Launch Module

"Because ships and bases are extremely expensive, the best way to explore distant regions of the Frontier is through scientific probes. There are also a number of probe types used for other purposes. The Probe Launch module provides the means for launching any type of probe."

Standard Downlink

"Downlink Modules provide the means by which scientific research information transmitted from the Galactic Science Corps research labs on Earth is received by X-COM bases in the Frontier. Every base can have up to three Downlink Modules. Each Standard Downlink is able to download 30 teraquads of information per hour."

Hyper-Com Downlink

"The Hyper-Com Downlink uses alien hyper-communications technology to boost the rate of data transfer from the research labs on Earth. Each Hyper-Com Downlink is capable of downloading 35 teraquads of information per hour."

Hyper-Dimensional Downlink

"The Hyper-Dimensional Downlink is the most efficient data transfer device available for the download of research data. Using a combination of alien Hyper-Dimensional Data Transfer and Microbit Compression technologies, the Hyper-Dimensional Downlink achieves download speeds of 40 teraquads per hour."

Deflector Shield Generator

"Base Shield Generators use the same shielding technology as the standard interceptor Deflector Shield, but on a much larger scale. The Deflector Shield Generator provides shielding with a rating of 2000 FSP (on the Fitzgerald scale). Due to power consumption, each base is capable of housing only one shield generator at a time."

Electroplasmic Shield Generator

"The result of research into alien shield technology, the Electroplasmic Shield Generator uses the same techniques as ship-mounted Electroplasmic Shields. This module has a shield rating of 3000 FSP. This module is designed to replace the base's existing shield module (if any); the existing module is dismantled and removed automatically as soon as the new module comes on line."

Trans-Dimensional Shield Generator

"The best shielding available for an X-COM base, this shield generator uses Trans-Dimensional shield technology to boost shielding capacity to 4000 FSP. Like the Electroplasmic Shield Generator, this module is designed to replace the base's existing shield module (if any) -- the existing module is dismantled and removed automatically as soon as the new module comes on line."

Standard Sensor Module

"The base's Sensor Module performs the same functions as a ship's Targeting System, but on a much larger scale. Both detection and targeting ranges are dramatically extended by the greater power available at a base installation. The Standard Sensor Module uses the same technology as the interceptor Standard Targeting System. Each base can have only one sensor module of any type at a given time."

Emissions Tracking Sensors

"The second evolution in base sensor technology, Emissions Tracking Sensors use the same technology as the alien-based Emissions Targeting System. This system provides detection and targeting ranges significantly greater than those of the Standard Sensor Module, and allows the use of several new weapons systems. When this module is added to the base, it automatically replaces any existing sensor module."

AATS Sensors

"The most sophisticated base sensor system available, the AATS Sensors use the same technology as the ship-mounted Advanced Autonomous Targeting System. Detection and targeting ranges are greater than those of Emissions Tracking Sensors, and the system is capable of controlling all available weapon types. When this module is added to the base, it automatically replaces any existing sensor module."

ECM Module

"A higher-powered version of the ECM generators carried by ships, the ECM Module generates a missile-jamming signal that extends to a one kilometer radius from the base. Like their ship-mounted counterparts, ECM Modules have a friend-or-foe system that allows them to selectively jam only enemy-controlled missiles. The jamming effects (but not the ranges) of ECM Modules are cumulative."

Advanced ECM Module

"Using the same advanced technology as the ship-mounted Advanced ECM Pod, this module boasts an increase in both range and effectiveness over the standard ECM system. Effective jamming range for the Advanced ECM Module is two kilometers."

Training Module

"Training Modules act as all-purpose educational facilities, providing advanced training for pilots in the areas of space flight and psionics. Each Training Module can train up to five pilots simultaneously."

Advanced Damage Control Module

"The ADC Module is a base mounted version of the Ship Damage Control Computer. This module augments the efforts of the base's damage control teams and the self-repairing systems, effectively doubling the rate at which systems are repaired. Although multiple ADC modules can be installed, the effects of this module are not cumulative."

Missile Defense Modules

"Missile Defense Modules are versatile defensive systems capable of delivering a wide variety of ordnance. The cost and ammunition capacity of each Missile Defense Module varies according to the type of missile it fires. The type of ordnance available for use in Missile Defense Modules is dependent on both technological knowledge and the type of sensors currently in use at the base. Certain missile types cannot be used in Missile Defense Modules under any circumstances."

Beam Defense Modules

"Beam Defense Modules are universal weapons platforms capable of mounting almost any beam weapon available. The cost of a Beam Defense Module varies according to the type of beam weapon it uses, and the weapons available for use in Beam Defense Modules are dependent on both technological knowledge and the type of sensors installed on the base. Certain beam weapons cannot be mounted on Beam Defense Modules under any circumstances."

Communications Module

"Communications Modules are vital to the operation of interceptors from a base. If a base is not equipped with a Communications Module, in-flight orders cannot be issued to intercept craft assigned to the base."

Medical Module

"Although minimal patient care facilities are built into every Personnel Module, these facilities cannot equal those of a fully-equipped hospital. Each Medical Module can house up to five injured pilots simultaneously. When room is available, injured pilots can be placed into a Medical Module to receive treatment. Pilots convalescing in a Medical Module heal at twice the normal rate."

Tractor Module

"Base-mounted Tractor Modules are nearly identical to their ship-mounted counterparts with some notable exceptions. First, because of the base's tremendous power reserves, the use of a Tractor Module does not eliminate the base's ability to fire beam weapons. Second, since bases are stationary, tractored targets are simply held in place, not towed. Finally, because of a base's tremendous mass, the base does not suffer damage in the event of a tractor beam tug-of-war. If any damage is sustained, it is localized to the Tractor Module itself."

ALIENS AND ALIEN OPERATIONS

• Alien Freighter Convoy

"This mysterious message fragment shows what is apparently a fleet of alien freighters flying directly into a black hole. It is unclear what the freighters are carrying, and even more nebulous why the freighters would willingly enter a black hole. ~Although it is possible that this is some sort of waste disposal operation, Galactic Science Corps scientists think this is unlikely. The best way to find out what is happening is to intercept any alien freighter convoys that exhibit unusual or aberrant behavior. If we can succeed in destroying or capturing one of these convoys, GSC scientists might be able to shed some light on the aliens' mysterious activity."

• Alien Military Build-Up

"Whatever operation the aliens are undertaking is evidently of great military importance. This message shows a major military build-up in a black hole system -- apparently the same one seen in the first transmission we intercepted. ~It is imperative that we attempt to learn more about this situation. Interception of alien freighters, especially those that exhibit any unusual characteristics, should be one of your top priorities at this point. In the meantime, GSC's alien language experts are attempting to decode the audio portions of the alien messages."

• Alien Supply List

"Thanks to the Galactic Science Corps, we now have a partial translation algorithm for decoding the alien voice transmissions. ~The latest message appears to be a request for supplies, most of which are weapons and weapon-related equipment. Apparently, the aliens are in the process of constructing some sort of offensive weapon, presumably to use against X-COM. Most disturbing are the inclusion of the word "Doomsday" toward the end of the message. ~The GSC will continue to examine this and the previous messages for clues as to what the aliens are planning."

• Doomsday is Nigh

"The Galactic Science Corps is now capable of translating most of the aliens' language -- and not a moment too soon. ~Apparently, the aliens are in the late stages of the construction of some sort of weapon. Your interception of alien freighters and tugs has evidently disrupted the aliens' schedule, and you must continue to disrupt their lines of supply until GSC scientist can determine where the aliens are building their device. Hopefully, in the process, you can uncover further components and information that will allow X-COM to take a more proactive approach to this situation."

• The Doomsday Attack Plan

"The most recent alien message has confirmed our worst fears. The aliens have constructed a massive Doomsday Weapon that they intend to use against Earth. Time is short, and it is important that you act as soon as possible to prevent this device from being completed and launched! ~The map fragment embedded in the message reveals the general location of the black hole that acts as an entrance to the aliens' dimension. Once you locate this region of space, you must act quickly to build up an attack force for the final attack on the Doomsday Weapon. ~No weaponry, alien or human, can damage an object so large. Therefore, the GSC has recommended the use of the Nova Bomb as possible means of destroying the Doomsday Weapon and sealing the alien universe forever. Therefore, your final assault force must include at least one Super Avenger interceptor equipped with a Nova Bomb. ~The 'MacArthur' - a 'Patton'-class vessel equipped with the new Dimension Jump Drive - will carry up to five ships through the black hole and into the alien universe. When you are ready to launch your assault, signal for the 'MacArthur' through the normal mission launch sequence. Good luck."

• Alien Structural Component

"The object retrieved from the freighter convoy is likely related to the alien message we recently received. It appears to be a structural component for an immense space station or similar complex. Speculation as to this component's use -- and why the aliens would be towing these components through deep space -- is pointless without additional information. Be on the lookout for any alien freighter convoys that display unusual characteristics, and make sure that all alien transmissions you receive are examined as soon as possible."

• Alien Drive Component

"This is another piece of alien cargo that seems connected with the aliens' secret project, now referred to as "Doomsday" by GSC scientists. This new component appears to be part of a massive star drive system -- similar to the hyperdrive propulsion systems used by alien fighters, but on a much larger scale. Scientists now suspect that the object the aliens are constructing is not for use here in the Frontier -- rather, it is meant to be deployed in a distant location."

• Alien Weapon Component

"It seems that numerous alien convoys have started transporting this massive component. Even after detailed examination, the its full function cannot be fathomed; however, many of the parts that make up this component are devices and materials that have come to be associated with alien weaponry. Galactic Science Corps scientists can only speculate what type of weapon could be built using components of this magnitude."

• Aereons

"Aereons are a breed of alien never before encountered by X-COM. They appear to be a race of genetically engineered cyborgs. Hundreds of cybernetic implants suffuse the organic portion of their bodies and terminate in external connectors that link directly to built-in interface ports in the cockpits of alien fighters. The result of this marriage of biology and computer technology is that the Aereon's piloting abilities and response times are far superior to those of even the best non-Aereon pilot. ~Although their cybernetic implants are obviously their main strength, the Aereons mental and physical capabilities are also better than those of most other alien pilots. They are, by far, the most formidable and dangerous opponents X-COM pilots face in a dogfight situation. The one redeeming feature of these dangerous aliens is that they do not appear to possess inordinately high psionic abilities."

• Ethereal

"Ever since they were encountered in the First Alien War, the mere sight of an Ethereal has struck fear into the hearts -- and minds -- of X-COM agents. Now, after nearly a century, we have once again come face to face with this formidable nemesis. ~When X-COM scientists first studied this species, it was clear that this creature was not engineered for planet-bound warfare. Now it is obvious what job the Ethereals were designed for; as pilots they are extremely adept, and their weapon and targeting skills are better than average. They are also fairly aggressive in their attacks in most situations. The biggest danger, however, is that the Ethereals' psionic capabilities are extremely high, and they are often able to use this ability to panic or gain control of X-COM pilots. This makes Ethereals very dangerous, especially to pilots with low psionic capabilities."

• Muton

"The Muton race is familiar to X-COM as one of the most feared aliens from the First Alien War. As foot soldiers, Mutons were relentless and nearly impervious to most forms of weaponry. ~Muton pilots operating in the Frontier, although slightly different than the original specimens encountered, are essentially identical to those who plagued Earth nearly a century ago. The primary difference in this strain is heightened mental capacity, probably a necessary adaptation to allow Mutons to operate high-tech spacecraft. Despite this, Mutons are not nearly as formidable in the skies as they were on the ground. As pilots, they are average at best. They also lack all but the most basic psionic defensive abilities, and are unable to use psionic weaponry."

• Psilord

"The Psilord is an abomination that has obviously been developed primarily for its mental capacity. This genetically engineered creature has psionic abilities that far exceed those of any alien species encountered to date. ~Unlike other alien species, Psilords tend to remain out of the main battle if they possibly can. They use their psionic abilities to bolster the fighting skills of all the other alien pilots in the battle. Whenever a Psilord is present at a battle, all alien pilots exhibit heightened prowess in both flying and weapon skills. In addition, Psilords seem to increase the alien pilots' ability to fight as a unified group. ~Although they seldom enter the fray of their own accord, Psilords are nevertheless formidable dogfight opponents, and downright deadly when their ships are equipped with psionic weaponry. "

• Sectoid

"Of all the alien species encountered, the Sectoids are perhaps the most familiar. Reports of Sectoid sightings pre-date the first alien war, with documented encounters as early as 1948. ~Sectoid pilots in the Frontier are identical to Sectoids captured and studied during the First Alien War. As pilots, they use both their highly developed mental capacity and their superior psionic skills to good advantage, though their flying and marksmanship are strictly average. "

ALIEN SHIPS AND INSTALLATIONS

• Wraith Type 1 Saucer

"Detailed examination of the hull and internal systems of the Wraith saucer has provided a great deal of information on the composition and operational capabilities of the latest generation of alien craft. The Wraith's weapons payload capacity is only slightly better than that of the X-1A Lightning II interceptor, but the "Wraith" is lighter, more agile, and capable of withstanding significantly more damage than its X-COM counterpart."

• Spectre Type 2 Saucer

"The Spectre saucer represents a much greater threat than the smaller Wraith. Designed as a multi-purpose craft, the Spectre is equally good at dogfighting and attacking medium to heavy slow or stationary targets. This vessel's weapons and defensive capacity is superior to that of the Wraith, and comparable to that of the X-COM S-2 Firestar. Examination of this ship has opened a number of new avenues of research."

• Phantasm Type 3 Saucer

"The Phantasm significantly out-guns any X-COM vessel, especially when it comes to beam weapons, thus making it a very serious threat. The role of this ship is primarily offensive -- most notably, it is frequently the vanguard of attacks against X-COM bases and Outposts. Although much of the technology used in this vessel can also be found in other alien vessel classes, there are several features unique to the Phantasm that could lead to advances in shielding, drive, and targeting systems."

• Shade Fighter

"The Shade is a deadly departure from the standard saucer-based alien ship design. It is a fast and highly maneuverable ship that is armed to the teeth with all the latest alien weaponry. The Shade also employs new shielding technology unlike that found on any other type of alien vessel. Exclusively operated by Aereon pilots, Shades pose a significant threat in dogfight situations."

• Spirit Alien Freighter

"The aliens' fleet of interstellar freighters is the lifeline of their economy. It seems that the aliens depend on their freighters just as X-COM does. This means that successful strikes against these ships can have a significant effect on the alien infrastructure. Aside from their outward appearance, the Spirit freighters are very similar to their X-COM counterparts. The major differences are a larger cargo capacity and slightly better hull integrity."

• Alien Drone

"Alien Drones are tiny unmanned fighter craft that are often deployed by alien freighters as a defensive measure. Each Drone has its own guidance, propulsion, and weapons system. Once launched, Drones engage the nearest threatening target. In addition to their own internal control systems, each Drone is equipped with a small psionic receiver that allows the pilot that launched the Drones to control them. Once the launching vessel is destroyed, all Drones controlled by that ship's pilot switch over to independent operation. Once operating on their own, Drones are much less of a threat."

• Alien Outpost

"Alien outposts are the backbone of all alien operations in the Frontier, accumulating raw materials and processing them into equipment and weapons for the alien war effort. These facilities are well-shielded. They possess no offensive weaponry, but are usually guarded by fighter squadrons. If we understand the alien's infrastructure correctly, the destruction of alien outposts could potentially place a major strain on the aliens' ability to effectively carry out their day-to-day activities."

• Alien Mining Platform

"Alien mining platforms fulfill the same function as X-COM Ore Processing Plants. They possess minimal defensive capability, but are usually guarded by one or more fighter craft. While the loss of a mining platform is not as economically devastating as the loss of an outpost, mining platforms remain a viable target when attempting to slow alien production capabilities."

ALIEN BASE COMPONENTS

• Central Pod

"Like X-COM bases, alien bases seem to use a modular construction design. All of the modules, or "pods", on an alien base are attached either to the huge central hub or to one of the dangling "tendrils" attached to it. Destruction of the hub ensures the destruction of the entire base."

• Hangar Pods

"Analogous to the Hangar Modules on X-COM bases, each alien Hangar Pod houses up to three ships and the equipment needed to maintain them. Destruction of a Hangar Pod means the destruction of any ships inside the pod, and it leaves those ships currently in flight which are normally housed in that facility with no place to land and refuel. "

• Hibernation Pods

"Whereas X-COM pilots are housed in relative luxury on their home bases, scans show that the aliens keep their pilots in suspended animation until needed. Each alien Hibernation Pod houses up to five pilots. Destruction of a Hibernation Pod kills all the alien beings housed therein."

• Cargo Pod

"Like X-COM bases, alien bases have modular cargo storage areas that house all the equipment and supplies needed for base and ship operations. Destruction of a Cargo Pod destroys all weapons and equipment inside the pod and reduces the cargo capacity of the alien base."

• Probe Launcher

"Like X-COM, the aliens appear to rely heavily on the information obtained from sensor probes. They also launch probes for a wide variety of other purposes. The destruction of an alien base's Probe Launchers inhibits the aliens' exploration abilities and prevents them from launching probes that might interfere with X-COM operations."

• Data Receptor

"Aliens share their tactical and engineering data through a link to some sort of information web. This is not unlike the Downlink data system used by X-COM. This appears to be the most basic alien download device. Destruction of Data Receptors should slow the aliens' development of technology."

• High-Speed Data Receptor

"This is an upgraded version of the basic Data Receptor used by the aliens to increase their technology base. Scans show that this version is capable of much faster data transfer than its predecessor."

• Advanced Data Receptor

"This is the ultimate version of the aliens' Data Receptor technology we have yet discovered. GSC scientists confirm that it is capable of significantly faster uploads and downloads than the High-Speed Data Receptor."

• Electroplasmic Shield Pod

"This alien shield generator is capable of producing a defensive field of the type generated by some of the less-powerful alien spacecraft. This is the most basic form of shield technology used by the aliens. Destruction of the Shield Pod leaves the base vulnerable to attack."

• Trans-Dimensional Shield Pod

"Using a technology far superior to that of the Electroplasmic Shield Pod, the Trans-Dimensional version produces a much more powerful defensive field."

• Sensor Pod

"The Sensor Pod is the most basic type of sensor/tracking system installed on alien bases. Based on the technology used in alien spacecraft sensors, this system is a great deal more powerful and accurate than basic X-COM base sensor systems. Destruction of an alien base's sensor pod should greatly reduce its targeting capability and weapons accuracy."

• Advanced Sensor Pod

"The ultimate in alien detection technology, the Advanced Sensor Pod is capable of targeting and controlling every type of weapon they are known to possess. This system uses the same technology as the most advanced sensor/tracking systems installed in alien spacecraft."

• ECM Projector

"This alien electromagnetic countermeasures (ECM) system has the potential to jam all X-COM missiles within a one kilometer range of an alien base. Destruction of a base's ECM projectors makes combat near the base much easier, and makes attacks on the base itself more effective."

• Advanced ECM Projector

"Essentially a higher-powered version of the basic alien ECM Projector, the advanced version has twice the range and is generally more effective than its predecessor."

• Programming Pod

"Alien pilots undergo a very detailed, very thorough learning ritual - but one that uses far different methods than X-COM training. Instead of mental and physical schooling, the aliens are genetically programmed with their skills. Each Programming Pod can "train" five pilots simultaneously. Destruction of a Programming Pod kills any aliens currently inside."

• Repair Pod

"All alien base systems appear to be self-repairing. Nevertheless, some bases seem to enhance their self-repair capabilities through the use of Repair Pods. Scans show that these modules contain a number of computer sub-systems that dramatically increase the speed at which base systems repair themselves. Destruction of a base's Repair Pod should make attacks against the base much more effective."

• Missile Pod

"Alien bases use defensive systems very similar to those used on X-COM bases. Missile Pods are capable of firing nearly any type of missile the aliens are known to possess. In a base attack scenario, it is recommended that you destroy as many offensive turrets as possible before attempting to attack other base targets."

• Beam Pod

"Beam Pods provide alien bases with a powerful and reliable means of defense. Capable of using a wide variety of beam weapons, Beam Pods, in sufficient numbers, can make attacking an alien base very difficult indeed. In a base attack scenario, it is recommended that you destroy as many offensive turrets as possible before attempting to attack other base targets."

• Communicator Pod

"Communicator Pods are used by the aliens to send orders to fighter squadrons assigned to each base. The destruction of a base's Communicator Pod has the potential to greatly reduce the effectiveness of alien fighter operations."

• Tractor Pod

"Alien Tractor Pods are capable of projecting tractor beams with greater range and power than ship-mounted tractor beam generators."

PROBES AND MINES

• Sensor Probe

"Sensor Probes are designed to be a low-cost alternative to sending ships out to explore unknown areas of space. Each probe is equipped with the best type of sensor equipment currently available. The modular design of the unit allows it to be upgraded with the advent of new technology. The detection range and total cost of each probe is dependent on the type of sensors carried. The travel range of the probe is limited to approximately .75 light years from its point of origin, and its operational life is limited to 4-6 weeks."

• Hunter Probe

"Understanding of the compact Vector Control Thrusters used by alien craft has allowed GSC scientists to design an updated version of the Sensor Probes currently in use by X-COM. Like Sensor Probes, Hunter Probes are equipped with the most up-to-date sensor equipment available. They differ from Sensor Probes in that they use their thrusters to move through space on a preset course centered on their destination coordinates. This allows them to cover a much wider range of territory than standard Sensor Probes. These roving probes should aid greatly in the tracking of alien movements, as well as the discovery of alien outposts and bases. The one drawback is that their functional life span is slightly shorter than that of a Sensor Probe. Like other probes, the maximum travel range for the Hunter Probe is .75 light years from its point of origin."

• Data Jammer Probe (Alien)

"Evidently, the aliens have determined the methods by which we accumulate our research data. This alien probe is designed to set up a electrostatic dampening field that prevents data reception over normal and hyper-dimensional channels. Luckily, the field generated by the probe is very localized, and is capable of affecting only one Downlink at a time. Although Marsec engineers can find no method of constructing a duplicate probe for X-COM use or developing countermeasures to prevent the probe's effects, the energy signature of the device is now known, and all sensor systems have been modified to immediately detect its presence."

• Sensor Probe (Alien)

"Rather than risk their expensive fighters for exploration purposes, the aliens make use of long-range sensor probes to map star systems and pinpoint the locations of X-COM bases and other human installations. Thanks to the close-range reconnaissance of one of these probes in a combat situation, all X-COM sensor systems are now tuned to identify alien Sensor Probes that enter scanning range. It is in X-COM's interests to eliminate these probes as soon as they are detected. "

• Alien Explosive Mine

"Alien Explosive Mines are similar in function to the naval mines used on 20th century Earth. Once an enemy ship enters the mine's detection range, the mine detonates with a powerful Elerium/Cobalt nuclear explosion. Detailed analysis of this object has allowed The GSC to modify the sensors of X-COM craft to identify Alien Explosive Mines in battle."

• Alien Beam Mine

"Arguably the most versatile and effective mine in the alien arsenal, an Alien Beam Mine is capable of utilizing a wide variety of beam weapons. The weapons are targeted by a miniature version of the targeting systems used by fighter craft, and the mine's self contained power source can power its weapons almost indefinitely. Although sensors cannot detect the type of weapon carried by the mines, ship detection systems have now been modified to identify Alien Beam Mines when encountered."

• Alien Missile Mine

"Alien Missile Mines use miniature versions of the targeting sensors found in fighter craft to actively scan for enemy targets. Once a target is acquired, the mine fires a missile from its payload and begins scanning for another target. Versatile and deadly, Alien Missile Mines are capable of firing virtually any type of missile the aliens possess. Another deadly twist is that, once their missile payload is depleted, Alien Missile Mines turn into explosive mines which explode when an enemy ship wanders too close. X-COM ship sensors have now been tuned to identify Alien Missile Mines in combat."

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