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Description

Part of the Birrin book project:

"Small and nimble, the Lightning was procured for strikes against insurgents attacking Reclamation assets. Originally built with hybrid electric turboprops, the old propulsion system was stripped out and replaced by small but proven jet engines as battery shortages persisted on forward operating bases.
The fuselage carries no weapons: instead, various stores are carried on hardpoints, with those operating in the river valley carrying a large gun pod. The pod, intended for larger aircraft, has barely enough clearance for takeoff and landings but offers considerable punch.
Trained pilots are considered important Reclamation assets, and so the aircraft has several safety features. A ballistic recovery system can bring the aircraft down if there is a good chance of recovery, while the cockpit detaches and parachutes away separately. Pilots downed in hostile territory are expected to scuttle their aircraft to prevent the hard-won technology being taken."

Description

Part of the Birrin book project:

"Small and nimble, the Lightning was procured for strikes against insurgents attacking Reclamation assets. Originally built with hybrid electric turboprops, the old propulsion system was stripped out and replaced by small but proven jet engines as battery shortages persisted on forward operating bases.
The fuselage carries no weapons: instead, various stores are carried on hardpoints, with those operating in the river valley carrying a large gun pod. The pod, intended for larger aircraft, has barely enough clearance for takeoff and landings but offers considerable punch.
Trained pilots are considered important Reclamation assets, and so the aircraft has several safety features. A ballistic recovery system can bring the aircraft down if there is a good chance of recovery, while the cockpit detaches and parachutes away separately. Pilots downed in hostile territory are expected to scuttle their aircraft to prevent the hard-won technology being taken."