Canon

M6 Spartan Laser: Difference between revisions

From Halopedia, the Halo wiki

No edit summary
 
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Title|Weapon/Anti-Vehicle Model 6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Rifle}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Era|H3}}
{{Weapon infobox
{{Weapon
|name = W/AV M6 G/GNR "Spartan Laser"
| image=[[Image:M6 Spartan Laser.jpg|300px]]
|image = {{tabcontainer|title1=M6/E|content1=[[File:H5G-M6SpartanLaser.png|350px]]|title2=M6/R|content2=[[File:H3-M6SpartanLaser.png|350px]]|title3=M6/V|content3=[[File:HReach-M6SpartanLaser.png|350px]]|title4=M6/X|content4=[[File:H4-SpartanLaser.png|350px]]}}
| name=M6 Spartan Laser
|manufacturer = [[Misriah Armory]]{{Ref/Book|Id=enc22|Enc22|Page=179}}
| manufacturer=
|series = M6
| model=Weapon/Anti-Vehicle Model 6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Rifle
|type = [[Directed-energy weapon]]{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
| type=Directed Energy Weapon
|cost = 218,000 [[Credit|cR]]{{Ref/Site|Id=prereleasebnet|URL=http://www.bungie.net/News/TopStory.aspx?link=charginmalasers|Site=Bungie.net|Page=Spartan Laser|D=2|M=2|Y=2007|LocalArchive=Machines, Materiel and Munitions from the Human-Covenant Conflict, 2525 - Present/M6}}{{Ref/Site|Id=bnet|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BAGSpartanLaser|Site=Bungie.net|Page=Spartan Laser|D=11|M=9|Y=2013|LocalArchive=Machines, Materiel and Munitions from the Human-Covenant Conflict, 2525 - Present/M6}}
| cost=[[cR|218,000.00 cR]]
|variant =  
| size=Heavy, Shoulder Mounted
* [[M6/E Spartan Laser]]
*Dimensions
* [[M6/R Spartan Laser]]
**length (o/a): 98.8 centimeters (38.9 inches)
* [[M6/V Spartan Laser]]
*Weight=45 lbs.
* [[M6/X Spartan Laser]]
**empty: 19.07 kilograms (42 pounds)
*[[M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon]]
**loaded: 20.4 kilograms (45 pounds)
*[[M8C Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon]]
| damage per hit=Extremely High
|service =
| magazine= 100 battery units
*[[Human-Covenant War]]{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
| maxammo=5 shots
*[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
| fire=Single shot, charge
|affiliation = [[United Nations Space Command]]{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
| ammotype=Directed chemical laser
|weight =
| operation=Directed energy
*'''Empty''': {{Convert|19.07|kg|lb}}{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}}<br/>
| rate of fire=Very Low
*'''Loaded''': {{Convert|20.4|kg|lb}}{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}}
| accuracy=Very High
|length = {{Convert|98.8|cm|in}}{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}} - {{Convert|121.1|cm|in}}{{Ref/Book|Id=evg|EVG|Page=183}}
| range=Long
|width = {{Convert|7.7|in|cm}} {{C|M6/X}}{{Ref/Book|Id=h4evg|H4EVG|Page=69}}
| era=
|height = {{Convert|15.4|in|cm}} {{C|M6/X}}{{Ref/Reuse|h4evg}}
| counterpart=
|ammotype = *[[BA-53635/PLMD]] battery unit {{C|M6/R}}{{Ref/Reuse|prereleasebnet}}
| counterwep=[[Fuel Rod Cannon]], [[M41 SSR MAV/AW Rocket Launcher|Rocket Launcher]], [[Sniper Rifle]]
*[[Series 6971 battery cell]] {{C|M6/X}}{{Ref/Reuse|h4evg}}
| affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
|capacity =
|feed = 100 battery units (4 to 5 shots){{Ref/Site|Id=waypoint|D=01|M=6|Y=2020|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/spartan-laser|Site=Halo Waypoint|Section=Universe|Page=Spartan Laser}}
|operation = [[Directed-energy weapon|Directed-energy]]{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
|rate = Semi-automatic{{Ref/Reuse|evg}}
|velocity = 299,792,458 m/s (983,571,056 ft/s){{Ref/Reuse|evg}}
|optics =
|range = Long{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
}}
}}
The '''Weapon/Anti-Vehicle Model 6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Rifle''' ('''W/AV M6 G/GNR'''), colloquially known as the '''Spartan Laser''', is a man-portable and vehicle-mounted solid-state [[directed-energy weapon|directed-energy]] anti-vehicle weapon used by the [[United Nations Space Command]].{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}{{Ref/Book|Id=enc09|Enc09|Page=315}} It is the only known infantry directed-energy weapon manufactured by [[human]]s, aside from the [[Plasma rifle (Chalybs)|plasma rifle protoype]] created by [[Chalybs Defense Solutions]].


{{Quote|It's not overpowered, it's an elegant weapon from a more civilized age.|[[Luke Smith|Luke "lukems" Smith]]}}
==Overview==
===Design details===
The M6 G/GNR was originally created in concert with the [[GUNGNIR]] [[Mjolnir]] armor variant as part of [[Project GUNGNIR]], a program designed to provide supplementary matériel for the [[SPARTAN-II program]], hence the "Spartan Laser" moniker.{{Ref/Site|D=14|M=03|Y=2011|URL=http://halo.xbox.com/en-us/intel/theuniverse/tech/video/the-mjolnir-project-2/46e89c1a-f619-41e2-ad7f-ab65c61ca2df|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=MJOLNIR 2|LocalArchive=The MJOLNIR Project}} The M6 G/GNR is a man-portable, shoulder-fired, directed energy weapon firing a [[wikipedia:Solid-state laser|solid-state laser]].{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}} The Spartan Laser's Grindell/Galilean architecture incorporates a [[Smart-linking|smart-linked]] [[Wyrd optics suite|Wyrd III optics suite]], capable of 3× magnification for increased accuracy.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}{{Ref/Reuse|prereleasebnet}} Its reticule, whether on 1× or 3× magnifications, features a meter on the right side showing the charging status of the laser. The tick mark rests at the bottom of the circular shaped reticule while the laser is dormant, and gradually travels along the reticule's circumference until it reaches the point of origin, indicating that the laser is currently discharging.{{Ref/Game|H3|Gameplay}} Certain variants of the M6, the M6/V and the M6/X, are equipped with foldable targeting displays, allowing operators to target enemies without the use of smart-linking on their [[heads-up display]].{{Ref/Game|HR|Gameplay}}{{Ref/Reuse|h4evg}}


The '''Weapon/Anti-Vehicle Model 6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Rifle'''<ref>
The M6 has gone through several iterations, but its changes have been mostly cosmetic.{{Ref/Reuse|evg}} For example, the M6/R variant used during the [[Human-Covenant War]] is powered by a [[BA-53635/PLMD]] non-removable battery, which recharges with a [[PP-16979/AM-Sh]] charger,{{Ref/Reuse|prereleasebnet}} whereas the M6/X variant is powered by [[Series 6971 battery cell]]s,{{Ref/Reuse|h4evg}} with little-to-no changes in performance.{{Ref/Game|H4|Gameplay}} Although the Spartan Laser was considered to be "ruinously expensive" at the time of its introduction, later refinements led to a reduction in production cost which is now only considered to be "extraordinarily expensive". Internal components have changed over time, incorporating incremental advances that have lowered production costs, and increased efficiency, but the significant advances in crystal doping and optoelectronic focusing remain largely opaque to end users.{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}}
http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BAGSpartanLaser</ref> (abbreviated '''W/AV M6 G/GNR'''), colloquially known as the '''Spartan Laser''', is a [[United Nations Space Command]] ground-based, man-portable, directed energy weapon. It is the only battery operated weapon of the [[UNSC]].


It is alternatively known as the ''Galilean''<ref>[[Image:Spartan Laser.jpg|50px]] (click for greater detail)</ref>.
===Operation===
[[File:The Covenant SL.jpg|thumb|left|200px|[[John-117]] firing an M6/R during the [[Battle of Installation 00]].]]
When the weapon is equipped, a shroud over the laser diode lifts up to expose it, presumably to protect it from scratches and battle damage when holstered.{{Ref/Note|In gameplay, the weapon is shown with the shroud up when it is on a person's back. This is likely due to reuse of the third-person viewmodel of the laser, which does not have the shroud covering the laser emitter.}} A small hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder on the left side of the shroud actuates the shroud where it is anchored to the chassis of the weapon. When the trigger is pulled, a red targeting laser is painted on-target accompanied by an audible whine as the weapon cycles up. The Spartan Laser will then charge for approximately three seconds before discharging the main laser. As the Spartan Laser charges, the charging tone gets noticeably louder and increases in pitch up until the laser is fired. The firing sequence can be aborted without discharging the battery as long as the weapon is not actually fired; for example, if the target moves out of sight or the operator needs to displace. Heat management forces significant downtime between shots, and so the weapon enters an approximately two-second-long standby sequence between shots.


==Introduction==
When fired, the Spartan Laser emits a solid-state laser, a powerful microsecond-long pulse of energy capable of burning through thick plates of metallic laminates, nanocomposites, or hardened steel.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}} The beam can also penetrate multiple obstacles and/or targets, provided they are aligned along a linear trajectory. The beam emitted by the M6 Spartan Laser weapons is typically a bright red. The beam is capable of eliminating all manner of targets in a very large range. When used against infantry such as [[Jiralhanae Chieftain]]s, the lasers is capable of efficiently burning through the armor and leaving a clean hole through the target and also severely damage anything behind the initial target. A single discharge from the M6/R is capable of piercing the thick armor of a {{Pattern|Ru'swum|Phantom}}.{{Ref/Reuse|prereleasebnet}}
The M6 [[Spartan]] Laser is a shoulder-mounted direct energy weapon used by the [[UNSC]]. It fires an extremely powerful red chemical laser capable of destroying vehicles and infantry with one accurate strike. When the trigger is pulled, a harmless red sighting laser is projected on-target along with a charging sound. The Spartan Laser will then charge for three seconds before firing its powerful and destructive burst. As the Spartan Laser charges, the charging tone gets noticeably louder up until the laser is fired. The charging sequence can be canceled without a battery penalty if the target moves out of sight or the wielder needs to change position. The laser is also capable of firing through several players or vehicles, and has a medium blast radius, injuring nearby targets and toppling light vehicles. It has a downtime between shots while it cools down (approx. 2-4 seconds), and is highly effective at destroying enemy vehicles.ref>[http://halo3.com halo3.com]</ref>


In [[Halo 3]] [[Multiplayer]], if you kill another player with the Spartan Laser, you will archieve a unique medal, the [[Laser Kill Medal]], it is awarded due to the difficulty of having to charge and aim the weapon. The weapon is not available in the campaign until the level [[The Covenant (Level)|the Covenant]], which Master Chief begins the level armed with the M6 G/GNR. The Spartan Laser is the only weapon other than the [[Fuel Rod Cannon]] and [[Rocket Launcher]] that can harm [[343 Guilty Spark]] in the final level of the campaign.
===Usage===
While there are multiple M6 variants to facilitate various specialized roles,{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}} the M6 is typically used in both anti-vehicle and anti-personnel roles.{{Ref/Reuse|prereleasebnet}} When employed in combat, the Spartan Laser had a marked effect on both allied and enemy morale.{{Ref/Reuse|prereleasebnet}} During the [[Human-Covenant War]], only [[Orbital Drop Shock Trooper]]s and Spartans were given ready access to the weapon.{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}}


==Operation==
==Variants==
===Targeting===
There are four known variants of the M6 Spartan Lasers:
When the weapon is unholstered, a shroud over the emitting lens of the laser lifts up to expose it, presumably to protect it from scratches and battle damage when holstered, although the weapon is shown with the shroud up when it is on a person's back. The shroud can be seen doing this when the weapon is unholstered in first person view if the user looks carefully. The shroud is actuated by a small hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder on the left side of the shroud where it is anchored to the chassis of the weapon. When the trigger is pulled, a harmless red dot is projected on the target and a unique targeting tone is emitted. The Spartan Laser will then charge for three seconds<ref name="1up">http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?cId=3155479</ref> before firing a massive blood-red laser beam that completely destroys the target. In the beta, if the reticle was moved while firing, a scattering of beams would be released, spreading over the targeted area. For the few seconds the laser is fired, the right targeting stick is disabled. However, the beam can be strafed over a larger area if the player is moving while the laser is firing.
* '''[[M6/E Spartan Laser]]''': The M6/E ("Enhanced") variant is upgraded to combat heavy armor,{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}} and functions primarily as an anti-tank ordnance.{{Ref/Site|Id=lockeandloaded|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/community/blog-posts/canon-fodder-locke-load|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Cannon Fodder: Locke & Load|D=13|M=4|Y=2016}} Its parts were miniaturized components derived from the [[M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon]] mounted on [[AV-22 Sparrowhawk]]s.{{Ref/Site|Id=localunits|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-local-units|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Cannon Fodder: Local Units|D=31|M=3|Y=2017}}
** '''[[Endgame]]''': ''Endgame'' is an improved model of the M6/E variant with a doubled battery capacity and reduced charge time. It has the downside of having less strength than its normal counterpart.
** '''[[Selene's Lance]]''': ''Selene's Lance'' is an advanced variant of the M6/E variant has a faster charge time and a longer beam duration, with 50% additional battery capacity compared to its normal counterpart.
* '''[[M6/R Spartan Laser]]''': The M6/R variant is specialized in reconnaissance deployments and scouting maneuvers.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
* '''[[M6/V Spartan Laser]]''': The M6/V variant is designed with a larger focus on operator safety via a versatile focus canopy.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}
* '''[[M6/X Spartan Laser]]''': The M6/X variant is powered by [[Series 6971 battery cell]]s and featured an experimental alternating power distributor.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22}}


The Spartan Laser is equipped with a smart-linked Wyrd III optics suite for increased accuracy and is capable of 2x magnification. Its reticle, whether on 1x or 2x magnifications, features a meter on the right side showing the charge of the laser.
<gallery class=center>
File:H5G-M6SpartanLaser.png|The [[M6/E Spartan Laser]].
File:H3-M6SpartanLaser.png|The [[M6/R Spartan Laser]]
File:HReach-M6SpartanLaser.png|The [[M6/V Spartan Laser]].
File:H4-SpartanLaser.png|The [[M6/X Spartan Laser]].
</gallery>


The reticle from the beta has been changed. Instead of four markings pointing inward the circle, the reticle now has a circle with a smaller circle inside of it.
In addition, related technology has been observed on vehicle armaments:
* '''[[M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon|W/AV M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon]]''': An upgraded variant mounted on the chin of [[AV-22 Sparrowhawk|AV-22]] and [[AV-22B Sparrowhawk]]s.{{Ref/Game|Id=HWLE|HW|[[Halo Wars Limited Edition|Limited Edition]]|Detail=[[Personnel profile]] - [[:File:HWLE Anders Profile Back.jpg|Professor Anders]]}}{{Ref/Book|EVG|Page=182}} This variant has similar firing and recharge rates to the man-portable version, though it has higher damage potential and a faster charge up. Some of the components that were on the Sparrowhawk' Spartan Laser were later miniaturized and installed on infantry-portable M6/E variants after the Covenant War.{{Ref/Reuse|localunits}}
* '''[[M8C Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon]]''': A variant mounted on the [[G79H-TC Pelican]].{{Ref/Book|H4EVG|Page=113}}
* '''[[M11B nonlinear cannon]]''': A variant mounted on [[S-930 Pegasus]] prototypes.{{Ref/Site|Id=digsite|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/canon-fodder-digsite-dissection|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Cannon Fodder - Digsite Dissection|D=28|M=7|Y=2023}}
* '''Unidentified variants''': A variant of [[pulse laser turret]]s on the [[G81 Condor]] appear to be derived from similar technology, alongside the high-energy lasers employed on the [[Command Mantis]] variant.


===Laser Beam===
==Gameplay==
If the player manages to keep their reticle on their target when the beam fires, the enemy will be killed in one hit. The Galilean "Spartan Laser" can even destroy a vehicle in one hit, even the Wraiths and Scorpions.  To do so, the operator of the laser must hit the cockpit of the vehicle in question, except for the tanks.  The Wraith must be fired upon from the rear right below the mortar. The Scorpion must be hit from the side on the area upon which the firing of the 90 mm shells takes place.  It is powerful enough to make its way through ten [[Warthog|Warthogs]].  It is also highly effective at destroying [[Scarab]] leg joints, although [[The Covenant]] is the only mission where this can be done, and it is unlikely the player will keep the Spartan Laser that long into the level without completely draining its battery. <ref>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVzPJzlTnsc</ref>. The beam is also known to have high splash damage at its impact point, and around its shot, and also has the capability to over penetrate, and eliminate multiple targets aligned in a linear trajectory. After firing, the weapon stops fuctioning for a brief period of time as it dumps its waste heat.
{{Main|Spartan Laser}}
The weapon has 5 shots before a "recharge" is needed.<ref name="1up"/>
Variants of the M6 Spartan Laser are featured as a usable weapon in ''[[Halo 3]]'', ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'', ''[[Halo: Reach]]'', ''[[Halo 4]]'', and ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''. They are known as the [[Spartan Laser]]. It is a [[power weapon]], which fires a powerful laser that deals an incredible amount of damage, destroying all vehicles with a single well-placed shot. The Spartan Laser is one of the most powerful weapons in the game, and to compensate, it has a limited use of five shots, a short cooldown after a discharge, and inability to pick up ammo.


In ''[[Halo Wars]]'' campaign, [[Jerome-092]] and two of the members of [[Team Omega]] are armed with Spartan Lasers. In ''Halo Wars'' [[skirmish]], the Spartan Laser is the final upgrade available to Spartans, available through the [[UNSC Barracks]]. The [[AV-22 Sparrowhawk]], a unit exclusive to [[Ellen Anders]], is equipped with a chin-mounted Spartan Laser. In ''[[Halo Wars 2]]'' campaign, Jerome-092 again wields the Spartan Laser, while in skirmish, Jerome-092 can equip the Spartan Laser upon researching Spartan Upgrade level Two in the [[UNSC Armory]]. The UNSC Super Unit [[G81 Condor]] is equipped with twin dual laser cannons in addition to a Mini-MAC.


It is powered by a [[BA-53635/PLMD]] non-replaceable battery, which is recharged with a [[PP-16979/AM-Sh]] charger. However, UNSC logistics are not sufficiently adequate for the charger to accompany many W/AV M6 G/GNR units in the field.
==Production notes==
* "Grindell" may be a reference to to [[Wikipedia:Harry Grindell Matthews|Harry Grindell Matthews]], an English inventor who claimed to have invented a death ray in the 1920s. The word "Galilean" is also printed on the side of the weapon.
* As a reference to [[Project GUNGNIR|its development program]], the sides of the M6/R and M6/V have the [[List of references to Norse mythology in Halo|Norse]] symbol for [[Wikipedia:Gungnir|Gungnir]] etched into it, which was the mythical spear wielded by the god [[Wikipedia:Odin|Odin]] in Norse Mythology. Gungnir was described as having the ability to always hit its mark. Part of the mythology is that Odin would hurl his spear over the doomed side of a battle.
*During the [[development of Halo 3|development]] of ''[[Halo 3]]'', [[Bungie]] envisioned the Spartan Laser as a weapon which could be only carried by Spartans. When they were deployed onto the battlefield, infantry would call this deployment "rolling thunder".{{Ref/Twitter|Isaac_Hannaford|1376661644185464832|Isaac Hannaford|Quote=We imagined the spartan laser as a Spartan specific weapon.  When Spartans entered the battlefield soldiers would refer to their approach as rolling thunder.|D=02|M=5|Y=2021}}
* Early concept art of the ''Halo: Reach'' starfighter [[FSS-1000 Sabre]] includes the Spartan Laser, which was replaced by the [[ST/Medusa missile|Medusa missiles]] in the final design. The starfighter depicted in the concept art, along with its Spartan Laser, were later canonized as the [[S-930 Pegasus]] and the [[M11B nonlinear cannon]], respectively.{{Ref/Reuse|digsite}}


==Trivia==
== Trivia ==
*When a Flood Combat Form wields the Spartan Laser, it cannot shoot you. It is unknown as to why Flood have no intelligence of using the Spartan Laser.
* [[Luke Smith]]'s comment on the Spartan Laser, "It's not overpowered, it's an elegant weapon from a more civilized age," is a reference to ''Star Wars''{{'}} [[StarWars:Lightsaber|lightsabers]], described as such by [[StarWars:Obi-Wan Kenobi|Obi-Wan Kenobi]].{{Ref/Site|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=12442|Site=Bungie.net|Page=Bungie Weekly Update 5/11/07|D=21|M=4|Y=2017}}
* In ''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]'', the Spartan Laser is shown to be able to deflect an energy sword and is, in that instance, [[Dual wielding|dual wielded]] with an [[M7 SMG]]. In addition, after [[Frederic-104]] fires his Spartan Laser twice, his HUD shows its battery has 80% of its power left, meaning his Spartan Laser has only expended 10% of its power with each shot. However, in ''Halo 3'', ''Halo 3: ODST'', and ''Halo: Reach'' as well as ''Halo 4'' and ''Halo 5: Guardians'', the Spartan Laser uses 20% and 25% of its battery with each shot, respectively. It is possible the Spartan Laser can change the amount of battery charge used in its shots, as the shots fired by Frederic seem dramatically weaker than those fired in the games.


*The Spartan Laser consists of a laser blast followed up by four more explosive blasts. Each blast damages 77% of the personal energy shield of a Spartan or Sangheili.
== Gallery ==
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of M6 Spartan Laser}}
=== Concept art ===
<gallery>
File:Halo3Beta-M6SpartanLaser-crop.png|Concept art of the M6 Spartan Laser for ''[[Halo 3]]''.
File:H4_ShotgunSplaser_Concept.jpg|Concept art of the M6 Spartan Laser in ''[[Halo 4]]''.
File:H5G-spartanlaser concept final.jpg|Concept art of the M6/E Spartan Laser in ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''.
</gallery>


*On the level Halo, if you pick up Johnsons Spartan Laser, it can have 55, 70, or 85 battery, which is usually impossible to obtain, because each shot takes 20 battery.
=== Screenshots ===
 
<gallery>
*The Spartan Laser is the most expensive weapon to produce currently known. It costs 218,000.00 [[cR]], more than the cost of four fully armed [[Warthog]]s, 129 MA5B Assault Rifles, or over 7,000 [[M9 Fragmentation Grenades]].
File:M6 Spartan Laser.png|An angled view of the M6/R Spartan Laser in ''Halo 3''.
 
File:H3-SpartanLaserHUD.png|HUD of the Spartan Laser in ''Halo 3''.
*The only vehicle the Spartan Laser can't destroy  is the [[Elephant]] which only appears in the multi-player map [[Sandtrap]]. The laser beam, however, will penetrate the armored walls of the vehicle and will damage anything in its way.
File:HW-SpartanIIsM6s.png|[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark IV|Mark IV]]-clad Spartan-IIs with Spartan Lasers in ''[[Halo Wars]]''.
 
File:Sparrow Laser.jpg|A [[Sparrowhawk]] fires its nose-mounted Spartan Laser. Note the blueish beam, instead of the normal red laser.
*On the side of the gun there is a sign which reads "DANGER: Bare live wires".
File:Fred 2.jpg|[[Frederic-104]] firing a Spartan Laser in ''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''.
 
File:H4-M6SpartanLaser-LeftSide.png|In-game left side view of the M6 Spartan Laser in ''Halo 4''.
*The reticle of the Spartan Laser has been changed from the one in the beta.
File:M6_GGNR_with_active_cowling.jpg|An M6 G/GNR with the protective cowling still deployed.
 
File:H4-MP-M6SpartanLaser-HUD-02.jpg|HUD of the M6 Spartan Laser in ''Halo 4''{{'}}s multiplayer.
*In the level [[Halo (Level)|Halo]] of Halo 3, it is possible to use the unlimited Spartan Laser Johnson gives you for the rest of the level. To do this, you must be playing co-op. After [[343 Guilty Spark]] opens the door to the control room, kill Johnson with a rocket/grenade, the flamethrower also works very well if you kept it from earlier. When he dies, quickly keep swapping weapons (Johnson's Laser with your weapon). When you get it far enough, use the Laser and it will have unlimited ammo (do this for both players). Then, just before you fight [[343 Guilty Spark]], kill each other, leaving your Lasers there. Then fight [[343 Guilty Spark]], and after you do, the Laser will still be there for you to use in the Warthog or Mongoose with unlimited ammo.
File:SarahPalmerLaser SpartanAssault.png|[[SPARTAN-IV program|Spartan]] [[Sarah Palmer]] using the M6 G/GNR against a {{Pattern|Zurdo|Wraith}} in ''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''.
File:HSS Spartan Laser.png|A Spartan-IV holding a Spartan laser in ''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''.
File:HSS_Spartan_laser_model.png|An M6 Spartan Laser in ''Halo: Spartan Strike''.
FIle:H5G-M6EHUD-Campaign.png|HUD of the M6/E Spartan Laser by [[Edward Buck]] in the ''Halo 5: Guardians'' campaign.
File:H5G-M6ESS.png|Third-person view of the M6/E Spartan Laser engaged in smart scope.
File:HO-SpartanLaser.jpg|A Spartan Laser in ''Halo Online''.
</gallery>


*You can get unlimited ammo if you give the Spartan laser to a Marine.  Marines doing this can come in handy especially when you are flying the Hornet and you have 2 soldiers on the stands.
== List of appearances ==
* ''[[Believe]]''
** ''[[Diorama]]'' {{1st}} {{C|Diorama only}}
* ''[[Halo 3]]''
* ''[[Halo Wars]]''
* ''[[Halo: Helljumper]]''
* ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
* ''[[Halo Legends]]''
** ''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''
* ''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
* ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
** ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Invasion|Invasion]]''
* ''[[Halo 4]]''
** ''[[Spartan Ops]]''
* ''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''
* ''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''
* ''[[Halo: Last Light]]'' {{Mo}}
* ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''
* ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
*''[[Halo: The Television Series]]''
**''[[Solace (TV Series)|Solace]]'' {{C|Hologram only}}
*''[[Halo: Vertical Umbrage]]''


*The Spartan Laser is the only known infantry weapon that can crack the casing of a Monitor. It is the most powerful infantry weapon available.
==Notes==
{{Ref/Notes}}


*The ability of the Spartan Laser to destroy most vehicles may hint that it fires a directed energy chemical laser, an extremely powerful laser that uses chemical reactions to produce a controlled beam.
== Sources ==
 
{{Ref/Sources}}
*Hitting the Scorpion's turret tip will not destroy it but will damage it very heavily. Hitting the Warthog's turret tip still destroys it.
 
*If you manage to kill a player at the exact time they discharge the spartan laser, the laser will still shoot but it will spin around as if its lost control.
 
*The Spartan Laser penetrates more or less vehicles depending on the type. Up to ten [[Warthogs]] can be destroyed by the laser. It will also only kill ten Spartan or Elite soldiers for each given discharge of the laser. No other weapon comes close.
 
*If you play the Campaign Mission [[The Covenant (Level)| The Covenant]] on any difficulty, a second Spartan Laser can be found near the wreckage of the downed Pelican.
 
*It is unclear how the W/AV M6 G/GNR was given the battlefield moniker ''Spartan'' Laser; it is possible that the first wielder of the weapon was a [[SPARTAN-II]] super-soldier.
*The side of the laser has the Norse symbol for "Gungnir" etched into it, which was the mythical spear wielded by the god Odin in Norse Mythology.
 
*The laser seems to trail off forever when fired into the sky, much like the Sentinel Beam. However, the beam of both weapons does end, usually at the invisible walls of the playing area. The laser beam on Sandtrap covers over 75% of the width of area (fired at a 45 degree angle).
 
*When fired at the ground, it seems as though it separated as there will be more than one impact spot.
 
*When firing at an extremely close range to a wall, the Spartan Laser projectile will kill you much like a Rocket Launcher.
 
*The writing near the back of the Spartan laser on the right hand side of it reads 06 GALILEIAN, but on the other side this is backwards. This is probably because Bungie designed only one half of the Spartan lasers skin and mirrored it for the other half.
 
*If a Marine is given a Spartan Laser, when you retrieve it from them it's power supply will have recharged itself. The amount of added charge varies depending on the amount of time they were holding it.
 
*A hit with the laser is not always a guaranteed kill. If the laser does not strike the player directly, the player will survive with lowered shields. This effect varies as some players have reported surviving up to two shots from the laser.
 
*If you find the unknown skull on Cortana and carry it through the rest of the level, you will start with a Spartan Laser in the next level.
 
*It is the only weapon to need one shot to kill another opponent with a fully charged overshield, other than the [[Needler]]'s chain detonation (seven shots or more).  This makes these two weapons popular choices for removing VIPs in the [[VIP]] gametype. (Rocket Launcher, Sniper Rifle, Beam Rifle, and Fuel Rod Cannon cannot).
 
==Images & Video==
<gallery>
Image:MediaCAGNNTYD.jpg|The concept art of the M6 Spartan Laser.
Image:Halo3.comspartanlaser.PNG|A wireframe of the M6 Spartan Laser.
Image:Spartan Laser Explosion.jpg|The devastating beam can destroy a vehicle by just grazing it.
Image:SpartanLaserFiring.jpg|Originally the laser beam multifurcated into multiple smaller beams, but still has sufficient force to destroy a [[Warthog]] on a glancing hit.
Image:Spartan Laser2.jpg|A player fires a Galilean "Spartan Laser" in [[Valhalla]].
Image:Spartan_laser_many_beams.jpg|The laser beam is devastating to infantry at any range.
Image:The Covenant SL.jpg|Master Chief Destroys a Covenant [[Shade]] turret on [[The Covenant]]
Image:166520-Full.jpg|Note how the beam destroys a Mongoose, through the Elephant's armor, and finally destroys the Hornet.
Image:6853290-Full2.jpg|A player on top of an elephant in sandtrap fires his spartan laser at a warthog completely destroying it.
Image:No_more_wraith.jpg|A single beam can destroy a [[wraith]] if it hits the cockpit
 
</gallery>


==Sources==
{{UNSC support weapons}}
<references/>


<br clear="all">
[[Category:Directed-energy weapons]]
{{WepList}}

Latest revision as of 15:22, February 13, 2024

W/AV M6 G/GNR "Spartan Laser"
M6/E
H5G-M6SpartanLaser.png
M6/R
H3-M6SpartanLaser.png
M6/V
HReach-M6SpartanLaser.png
M6/X
H4-SpartanLaser.png
Production overview

Manufacturer:

Misriah Armory[1]

Model series:

M6

Type:

Directed-energy weapon[1]

Cost:

218,000 cR[2][3]

Variants:

Specifications

Length:

98.8 centimetres (38.9 in)[3] - 121.1 centimetres (47.7 in)[4]

Width:

7.7 inches (20 cm) (M6/X)[5]

Height:

15.4 inches (39 cm) (M6/X)[5]

Weight:

  • Empty: 19.07 kilograms (42.0 lb)[3]
  • Loaded: 20.4 kilograms (45 lb)[3]

Ammunition type:

Feed system:

100 battery units (4 to 5 shots)[6]

Operation:

Directed-energy[1]

Rate of fire:

Semi-automatic[4]

Muzzle velocity:

299,792,458 m/s (983,571,056 ft/s)[4]

Effective range:

Long[1]

Service history

In service:

 

The Weapon/Anti-Vehicle Model 6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Rifle (W/AV M6 G/GNR), colloquially known as the Spartan Laser, is a man-portable and vehicle-mounted solid-state directed-energy anti-vehicle weapon used by the United Nations Space Command.[1][7] It is the only known infantry directed-energy weapon manufactured by humans, aside from the plasma rifle protoype created by Chalybs Defense Solutions.

Overview[edit]

Design details[edit]

The M6 G/GNR was originally created in concert with the GUNGNIR Mjolnir armor variant as part of Project GUNGNIR, a program designed to provide supplementary matériel for the SPARTAN-II program, hence the "Spartan Laser" moniker.[8] The M6 G/GNR is a man-portable, shoulder-fired, directed energy weapon firing a solid-state laser.[1] The Spartan Laser's Grindell/Galilean architecture incorporates a smart-linked Wyrd III optics suite, capable of 3× magnification for increased accuracy.[1][2] Its reticule, whether on 1× or 3× magnifications, features a meter on the right side showing the charging status of the laser. The tick mark rests at the bottom of the circular shaped reticule while the laser is dormant, and gradually travels along the reticule's circumference until it reaches the point of origin, indicating that the laser is currently discharging.[9] Certain variants of the M6, the M6/V and the M6/X, are equipped with foldable targeting displays, allowing operators to target enemies without the use of smart-linking on their heads-up display.[10][5]

The M6 has gone through several iterations, but its changes have been mostly cosmetic.[4] For example, the M6/R variant used during the Human-Covenant War is powered by a BA-53635/PLMD non-removable battery, which recharges with a PP-16979/AM-Sh charger,[2] whereas the M6/X variant is powered by Series 6971 battery cells,[5] with little-to-no changes in performance.[11] Although the Spartan Laser was considered to be "ruinously expensive" at the time of its introduction, later refinements led to a reduction in production cost which is now only considered to be "extraordinarily expensive". Internal components have changed over time, incorporating incremental advances that have lowered production costs, and increased efficiency, but the significant advances in crystal doping and optoelectronic focusing remain largely opaque to end users.[6]

Operation[edit]

John-117 firing an M6/R during the Battle of Installation 00.

When the weapon is equipped, a shroud over the laser diode lifts up to expose it, presumably to protect it from scratches and battle damage when holstered.[Note 1] A small hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder on the left side of the shroud actuates the shroud where it is anchored to the chassis of the weapon. When the trigger is pulled, a red targeting laser is painted on-target accompanied by an audible whine as the weapon cycles up. The Spartan Laser will then charge for approximately three seconds before discharging the main laser. As the Spartan Laser charges, the charging tone gets noticeably louder and increases in pitch up until the laser is fired. The firing sequence can be aborted without discharging the battery as long as the weapon is not actually fired; for example, if the target moves out of sight or the operator needs to displace. Heat management forces significant downtime between shots, and so the weapon enters an approximately two-second-long standby sequence between shots.

When fired, the Spartan Laser emits a solid-state laser, a powerful microsecond-long pulse of energy capable of burning through thick plates of metallic laminates, nanocomposites, or hardened steel.[1] The beam can also penetrate multiple obstacles and/or targets, provided they are aligned along a linear trajectory. The beam emitted by the M6 Spartan Laser weapons is typically a bright red. The beam is capable of eliminating all manner of targets in a very large range. When used against infantry such as Jiralhanae Chieftains, the lasers is capable of efficiently burning through the armor and leaving a clean hole through the target and also severely damage anything behind the initial target. A single discharge from the M6/R is capable of piercing the thick armor of a Ru'swum-pattern Phantom.[2]

Usage[edit]

While there are multiple M6 variants to facilitate various specialized roles,[1] the M6 is typically used in both anti-vehicle and anti-personnel roles.[2] When employed in combat, the Spartan Laser had a marked effect on both allied and enemy morale.[2] During the Human-Covenant War, only Orbital Drop Shock Troopers and Spartans were given ready access to the weapon.[6]

Variants[edit]

There are four known variants of the M6 Spartan Lasers:

  • M6/E Spartan Laser: The M6/E ("Enhanced") variant is upgraded to combat heavy armor,[1] and functions primarily as an anti-tank ordnance.[12] Its parts were miniaturized components derived from the M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Cannon mounted on AV-22 Sparrowhawks.[13]
    • Endgame: Endgame is an improved model of the M6/E variant with a doubled battery capacity and reduced charge time. It has the downside of having less strength than its normal counterpart.
    • Selene's Lance: Selene's Lance is an advanced variant of the M6/E variant has a faster charge time and a longer beam duration, with 50% additional battery capacity compared to its normal counterpart.
  • M6/R Spartan Laser: The M6/R variant is specialized in reconnaissance deployments and scouting maneuvers.[1]
  • M6/V Spartan Laser: The M6/V variant is designed with a larger focus on operator safety via a versatile focus canopy.[1]
  • M6/X Spartan Laser: The M6/X variant is powered by Series 6971 battery cells and featured an experimental alternating power distributor.[1]

In addition, related technology has been observed on vehicle armaments:

Gameplay[edit]

Main article: Spartan Laser

Variants of the M6 Spartan Laser are featured as a usable weapon in Halo 3, Halo 3: ODST, Halo: Reach, Halo 4, and Halo 5: Guardians. They are known as the Spartan Laser. It is a power weapon, which fires a powerful laser that deals an incredible amount of damage, destroying all vehicles with a single well-placed shot. The Spartan Laser is one of the most powerful weapons in the game, and to compensate, it has a limited use of five shots, a short cooldown after a discharge, and inability to pick up ammo.

In Halo Wars campaign, Jerome-092 and two of the members of Team Omega are armed with Spartan Lasers. In Halo Wars skirmish, the Spartan Laser is the final upgrade available to Spartans, available through the UNSC Barracks. The AV-22 Sparrowhawk, a unit exclusive to Ellen Anders, is equipped with a chin-mounted Spartan Laser. In Halo Wars 2 campaign, Jerome-092 again wields the Spartan Laser, while in skirmish, Jerome-092 can equip the Spartan Laser upon researching Spartan Upgrade level Two in the UNSC Armory. The UNSC Super Unit G81 Condor is equipped with twin dual laser cannons in addition to a Mini-MAC.

Production notes[edit]

  • "Grindell" may be a reference to to Harry Grindell Matthews, an English inventor who claimed to have invented a death ray in the 1920s. The word "Galilean" is also printed on the side of the weapon.
  • As a reference to its development program, the sides of the M6/R and M6/V have the Norse symbol for Gungnir etched into it, which was the mythical spear wielded by the god Odin in Norse Mythology. Gungnir was described as having the ability to always hit its mark. Part of the mythology is that Odin would hurl his spear over the doomed side of a battle.
  • During the development of Halo 3, Bungie envisioned the Spartan Laser as a weapon which could be only carried by Spartans. When they were deployed onto the battlefield, infantry would call this deployment "rolling thunder".[18]
  • Early concept art of the Halo: Reach starfighter FSS-1000 Sabre includes the Spartan Laser, which was replaced by the Medusa missiles in the final design. The starfighter depicted in the concept art, along with its Spartan Laser, were later canonized as the S-930 Pegasus and the M11B nonlinear cannon, respectively.[17]

Trivia[edit]

  • Luke Smith's comment on the Spartan Laser, "It's not overpowered, it's an elegant weapon from a more civilized age," is a reference to Star Wars' lightsabers, described as such by Obi-Wan Kenobi.[19]
  • In The Package, the Spartan Laser is shown to be able to deflect an energy sword and is, in that instance, dual wielded with an M7 SMG. In addition, after Frederic-104 fires his Spartan Laser twice, his HUD shows its battery has 80% of its power left, meaning his Spartan Laser has only expended 10% of its power with each shot. However, in Halo 3, Halo 3: ODST, and Halo: Reach as well as Halo 4 and Halo 5: Guardians, the Spartan Laser uses 20% and 25% of its battery with each shot, respectively. It is possible the Spartan Laser can change the amount of battery charge used in its shots, as the shots fired by Frederic seem dramatically weaker than those fired in the games.

Gallery[edit]

Concept art[edit]

Screenshots[edit]

List of appearances[edit]

Notes[edit]

  1. ^ In gameplay, the weapon is shown with the shroud up when it is on a person's back. This is likely due to reuse of the third-person viewmodel of the laser, which does not have the shroud covering the laser emitter.

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 179
  2. ^ a b c d e f g Bungie.net, Spartan Laser (Retrieved on Feb 2, 2007) [local archive] [external archive]
  3. ^ a b c d Bungie.net, Spartan Laser (Retrieved on Sep 11, 2013) [local archive] [external archive]
  4. ^ a b c d Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 183
  5. ^ a b c d e Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 69
  6. ^ a b c Halo Waypoint - Universe, Spartan Laser (Retrieved on Jun 1, 2020) [archive]
  7. ^ Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition), page 315
  8. ^ Halo Waypoint, MJOLNIR 2 (Retrieved on Mar 14, 2011) [local archive] [external archive]
  9. ^ Halo 3, Gameplay
  10. ^ Halo: Reach, Gameplay
  11. ^ Halo 4, Gameplay
  12. ^ Halo Waypoint, Cannon Fodder: Locke & Load (Retrieved on Apr 13, 2016) [archive]
  13. ^ a b Halo Waypoint, Cannon Fodder: Local Units (Retrieved on Mar 31, 2017) [archive]
  14. ^ Halo Wars, Limited Edition: Personnel profile - Professor Anders
  15. ^ Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 182
  16. ^ Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 113
  17. ^ a b Halo Waypoint, Cannon Fodder - Digsite Dissection (Retrieved on Jul 28, 2023) [archive]
  18. ^ Twitter, Isaac Hannaford (@Isaac_Hannaford): "We imagined the spartan laser as a Spartan specific weapon. When Spartans entered the battlefield soldiers would refer to their approach as rolling thunder." (Retrieved on May 2, 2021) [archive]
  19. ^ Bungie.net, Bungie Weekly Update 5/11/07 (Retrieved on Apr 21, 2017) [archive]