The Shadowsword: A Titan-Hunting Behemoth
In the grim darkness of the far future, the Imperium of Man relies on mighty war machines to protect its borders. Among these is the Shadowsword, a super-heavy tank designed to hunt and destroy enemy Titans. Based on the same chassis as the Baneblade, the Shadowsword is a formidable opponent on the battlefield.
Design and Armament
The Shadowsword is distinguished from its sister design by its main armament, the Volcano Cannon. This massive laser cannon is capable of tearing off a Titan’s limb with a single shot and is assisted by advanced logis-engines and targeting equipment. The power needed to produce this devastating blow is drawn from the Shadowsword’s capacitors, which themselves draw power from the tank’s engine. However, just one shot will completely drain the capacitors, requiring the tank to recharge before firing again.
Defense and Support
For defense, the Shadowsword has two remote-controlled side sponsons fitted with Twin-linked Heavy Bolters or Heavy Flamers. Some Shadowswords may also be equipped with extra armor or additional sponsons. In addition, many crews will install a pintle-mounted Storm Bolter or Heavy Stubber, and/or a Hunter-Killer Missile on their tanks. Finally, all Shadowswords are equipped with Smoke Launchers to increase survivability and a Searchlight for night-fighting.
Deployment and Tactics
Due to its slow rate of fire, the Shadowsword often operates with lighter vehicles that provide support and protection. While the Shadowsword lies in ambush, the smaller vehicles attempt to strip the enemy’s Void Shields, allowing the Shadowsword to deliver the killing blow.
Notable Shadowswords
Several notable Shadowswords have made their mark on the battlefield. These include Alpha Three, Angel of the Apocalypse, Castigatus, Creed’s Vengeance, Duty’s Honour, Indomitable, Lux Imperator, The Iron Saint, Tormentor, Titans’ Bane, and Winter’s End.
Variants and Counterfeits
While “true” Shadowswords are registered on Mars and have their deeds recorded regularly, “counterfeit” Shadowswords are produced by Forge Worlds that do not have access to the same STC data. These counterfeit Shadowswords are less advanced and may have primitive logic engines, inefficient capacitors, and crewed sponson weapons.
Conclusion
The Shadowsword is a powerful and feared war machine that plays a crucial role in the Imperium’s defense against enemy Titans. Its advanced armament and defensive capabilities make it a valuable asset on the battlefield.
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