F-41 Broadsword

The F-41 Exoatmospheric Multirole Strike Fighter, commonly known as the Broadsword, is a VTOL multi-role atmospheric/exoatmospheric (A/X) strike fighter used by the UNSC Defense Force. Like other UNSC A/X attack craft, the Broadsword is named after a bladed weapon. The carries a complement of Broadswords, likely totaling several dozen. Ivanoff Station also posseses at least one, indicating they are commonplace on UNSC instatllations for defense. The MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Aviator helmet is recommended for use by Broadsword crew members.

Specifications
Like the Sabre, the Broadsword has energy shielding that covers the entire fighter and recharges when depleted. However, these shields are not rated for Slipspace travel. The Broadsword is equipped with two M1075 ASW/AC 35mm MLA cannons and two M6088 ST/MMP missile pods. It can also be equipped with a HAVOK tactical nuclear weapon.

History
Broadswords were first seen flying over the 's commisioning ceremony. Ivanoff Station carried Broadsword fighters in its hanger bay, presumably for protection in case of an attack. After the Didact used the Composer to digitize everyone in the station, John-117 took one, arming it with a HAVOK tactical nuclear weapon, intending to destroy the Didact's ship and prevent the Didact from using the Composer on humanity. John caught up with him just before he entered Slipspace, and after arriving at Earth, used the Broadsword to take out the Mantle's Approach's point-defense guns so that the Infinity could punch a hole through the ship. Recklessly flying the fighter inside the warship's hull, the walls closed in around the Broadsword and crushed it, forcing him to physically carry the HAVOK the rest of the way to the Composer.

Six months after the skirmish at Earth, Infinity returned to Requiem attacking the Covenant remnant fleet in its orbit. Several squadron of Broadswords were launched from Infinity's hangers, shooting down dozens of Seraph interceptors and providing cover for the Pelican dropships landing troops on the Shield World.

List of appearances

 * The Commissioning
 * Halo 4