B-65 Shortsword

Shortsword-class Bomber The Shortsword-class Bomber is a UNSC atmospheric bomber used primarily for short-range, heavy payload bombing runs against enemy ground targets, especially Covenant forces. It shares a similar "sword" codename to the Longsword-class Interceptor. The bombers were in use by the UNSC by at least 2531.

Function
A Shortsword's payload is interchangeable, capable of delivering conventional ordnance, or less conventional munitions into theatres of combat, dropping them onto the target zone at low altitude and high velocity. These strikes are launched from an orbital support ship, indicating at least a rudimentary exoatmospheric capability.

Development
At some time during the development of Halo Wars, the Shortsword was originally to be a usable unit, docked at the Airpad. In the concept art, its tail is retracted and its wings are angled up to make it more compact and allow docking.

Use
The use of the Shortsword differs depending on which faction the player uses. Professor Anders uses it in the Cryo Bomb ability, where it is a simple point-and-click power. Sergeant Forge uses it to perform Carpet Bombing runs, where the beginning of the bombing run must be selected. An arrow appears, and can be rotated around the start point, setting the angle of the bombing run, useful for hitting a number of enemies in different formations. Captain Cutter can only use it to deploy a Disruption Bomb, and not for leader-specific support abilities.

Trivia

 * Macolm Thomas-Gustave was the animator who worked on the Shortsword in the Halo Wars Announcement Trailer.
 * It was once thought to be the Skyhawk in the Halo Wars trailer but has since been named in a desktop picture from the Official Halo Wars Website.
 * Considering the Shortsword is tasked with delivering short range, atmospheric assaults, it can be speculated that it is part of the UNSC Air Force, and not the UNSC Navy.
 * The Shortsword appears similar in appearance to the real-life B2 Stealth Bomber of the United States Air Force, with the exception of the large "bang" apparatus on the Shortsword. Both aircraft fill a similar role, acting as bombers, although it is unknown if the Shortsword has any stealth capabilities.
 * Along with the Longsword and Cyclops, it is not named after an animal like other UNSC vehicle such as the mongoose, warthog, scorpion etc.
 * This may be the only UNSC vehicle using CTOL (conventional take-off/landing) technology instead of VTOL.