TAC-21 Manta Ray

TAS-21 is the work horse of the 1st Tactical Protectorate, 5th division. This 2 man Tactical Armed Support Craft. TAS-21 is VTOL capable multi-role air craft with high maneuverability, payload and defensive capabilities. The Praat TF-62B Turbo blast fans propel the TAS-21 at speed of mach 3.1 in earth like atmospheres and have the lifting power to support the TAS-21 Modular pods.

On the nose the multi-optic sight is tied to gunner linked 2x12.7mm M-2A heavy rapid fire pulse blasters, along with a rear defensive 2x12.7mm M-2RjD auto-turret on the top, with 8 IR or laser guided ATGM's, 2X20 72mm rocket pods and 4 medium range IR AAM's. Strike range is 20km for missiles (ATGM and AAM) and 10km for 72mm rockets.
The rear turret is strictly controlled by a CDC which many gunners complain about and a retro fit is in progress but is not in production, 2 IR jammers and 2 counter measure dispensers on each boom/ nacelle.

There versatility of the Modular pods is the true power of the TAS-21.
Pods include:
Troop Transport, 24 foot soldiers + gear
Med-evac, 12 wounded + 6 medics
Command and control, crew 6, radio + real time comp relay
ECM/ECCM, Crew 4 + Jammers
Recon/Intel, Crew 4 + Classified
Missile Truck, 40 ATGM, 60 MRAAM, or 40 LRAAM
Strike/ anti ship/ anti installation, 24 Heavy LRTWHM
Gunship, 2 PAC40's
Air Assault, modified LAT or lighter vehicle underneath
Light Bomber, 60 100Kg, 30 200Kg, or 20 Smart bombs
Mech Hauler, 2 Marine power armor units
Resupply, enough to supply 24 troops for 2weeks of sustained ops

LRTWHM (Long Range Tactical Warhead Heavy Missile)
The modules are what lend to the true diversity of the Manta Ray and new and upgraded modules are in development to keep the TAS-21 at the forefront of the military