Tornado AS-40A

Mass: 40 tons
Power Plant: 200 Fusion
Safe Thrust: 8
Maximum Thrust: 12
Armor: TriStar Starweave Standard
Armament:
     1 PPC
     2 Medium Laser
Manufacturer: Lackland Naval Yards
     Primary Factory: Lackland
Communication System: TriStar Multilink II
Targeting & Tracking System: TriStar Longreach
Introduction Year: 3005
Tech Rating/Availability: IS Level 2
Cost: 27.97 million C-bills

Overview
The Tornado is TSG's primary close air support platform, designed to work directly with ground formations rather than seeking air-to-air engagements. The weather naming convention reflects Lackland's influence on aerospace doctrine — and Lackland pilots' tendency toward dramatic callsigns.

Capabilities
The PPC provides precision strikes against hardened targets, while paired Medium Lasers offer sustained firepower for strafing runs. Safe thrust of 8 and maximum thrust of 12 provide adequate speed for ground attack missions. The relatively heavy armor (136 points) allows it to loiter over battlefields under ground fire.

Deployment
TSG doctrine emphasizes air-ground integration at all levels. Tornado pilots train extensively with ground units, learning to read ground combat and anticipate support requirements. A Tornado pilot who cannot communicate effectively with MechWarriors and tank commanders does not graduate from training.

History
The Tornado entered production in 3005 alongside the Tempest and Tsunami. The original design mounted autocannons for ground attack, but logistics considerations led to the current all-energy loadout. Pilots initially resisted the change but came to appreciate not running out of ammunition during extended operations.

Type: Tornado
Technology Base: IS Level 2
Tonnage: 40