Jigabatchi

Spacecraft Registry

Jigabatchi AV Attack Helicopter
Spacecraft Characteristics
Base Hull	Custom Helicopter
Drive Type	2 x Axial Compression Fusion Turboshaft
Drive Rating	Cruise: 175kph Max: 195kph
Armament	20mm Rotary Autocannon in tail. Guided Missiles Gunpods Unguided Rockets Swarm Pods
Owner	AMP
Flag of Record	Crystal Sapporo
Faction	Crystal Millennium
Registry Number	AMP-01#
Launched	2022
Purpose	Law Enforcement
Primary Crew	Single non-sapient autonomous intelligence.
Operational Status	Active as of 2022

First appearing in service with the AMP, the AV-1 Jigabachi was the result of an open design competition, chosen over the piloted A-56/W 'Airwolf', and GR03 Hokum series.

The Jigabachi is designed to fly as an unmanned craft, guided by its own artificial intelligence, or by remote control from the ground. Each Jigabatchi is fitted with full suite of sensors, including a high-energy radar system capable of penetrating the skin of the city itself. A high-powered dual-turboshaft engine and a NOTAR tail allows the Jigabatchi to maneuver safely within the relatively tight confines of the Crystal Cities.

Their signature features are a large bulging radome forming the chopper's 'head', and a modular, retractable tail capable of packing a heavy sting. Underwing hardpoints can carry additional fuel, countermeasures, swarms, or heavier ordnance as needed. For obvious reasons, these are rarely used, except on interception duties away from cities

The standard A and B variants differ only in sensor suites. Neither are capable of independent spaceflight by default.

The C version employed by the STU forgoes the standard turbo-rotor in favour of an all-electric powertrain. Further details of its power source are classified. The Jigabatchi C is near silent in operation, and tough to detect by conventional means with a minimal radar signature, almost no thermal signature and a highly advanced LPI sensor suite. The first warning of a Jigabatchi C being present is usually the first bullet being fired.

The D variant is a spaceflight-rated version, originally specific to Nehalennia and Shin-Azubajuban.

A dedicated Firefighting F-variant replaces the main gun with a high-flow nozzle and tanks of fire-retardants. Painted in bright red, it forgoes all attempts at stealth. F-models also incorporate an auto-winch and rescue harness.

A piloted G-Variant is being developed for the AD-Police of Genaros.

Attributes:

Hornet Swarm: Operate in meshed swarms of 3-5, overwhelming a target's defences. One observes, while the others attack, with roles switching and changing between units. If you can only see 1 Jigabatchi, chances are the other two are sneaking up on you.

A bug on the screen: All variants except F have some level of Stealth capability

Hornet Queen: A single Jigabachi can also act as a focal node for a swarm of smaller surveillance drones, launched from missile tubes.

Quirks:

Natural enemies: Tachikoma and Jigabachi do not 'get along'.

Buzzin' Hornets: Makes a distinctive and noticeable buzzing noise as it flies, rising in pitch and intensity as it swoops in for the attack , dropping it's tail to make its sting.