GR7-Spartan "Highlander Mk.II"

The integration of particle beam and plasma technology introduced certain concepts and ideas. One such idea was the 'plasma sword'. By modifying the concept of a plasma cutter, you could develop a 'sword' that cuts with high-temperature plasma. It would be relatively safe to handle compared to a heat weapon, and would also be faster and more effective overall. Actually designing such a weapon was another matter entirely.

Introducing the Highlander Mk.II.

The machine's frame doesn't drastically differ from the average Spartan, but has been reinforced significantly along its shoulders and legs. The Spartan's arms are bulkier yet smoothed out, containing an array of thrusters that allow the machine to throw punches or moves its limbs with greater force. These help compensate for the thrusters at its waist being moved to its lower back, giving the Highlander Mk.II a more traditional fighting posture.

Along its waist are two strung beam submachine guns. They connect to the 'armor skirt' along the waist on pivots, swinging forwards or backwards as needed. They primarily excel at a short range, allowing the Highlander to spray opponents it cannot yet physically reach. Located along the waist, under the cockpit and slightly above the armored skirt, a handful of anti-AA grenades are housed. These can be quickly ejected by the pilot.

Two pieces of equipment are carried along the machine's shoulders. On the left, a thick, hefty 'plasma cleaver'. Hung in a rack along its shoulder, it can be grabbed by the Highlander at any point. The cleaver features a slight indent along its cutting edge, where a slew of plasma jets await any machine unfortunate enough to be caught under it. The size of the blade makes it nearly as tall as the Spartan itself, making it a potent anti-ship weapon should it be allowed to get close enough. On its right shoulder lies a chain gun roughly half the length of its blade but equally as terrifying. The chain gun has been modified to support more flexible rounds, allowing the Spartan greater flexibility and range in exchange for higher weight and lower maneuverability.