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SPARTAN-II program: Difference between revisions

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{{Quote|You have been called upon to serve, you will be trained...and you will become the best we can make of you. You will be the Protectors of [[Earth]] and all her Colonies|[[Dr. Halsey]] to SPARTAN recruits}}
{{Quote|You have been called upon to serve, you will be trained...and you will become the best we can make of you. You will be the Protectors of [[Earth]] and all her Colonies|[[Dr. Halsey]] to SPARTAN recruits}}


The '''SPARTAN-II Program''' was part of the [[SPARTAN Program]], an effort to produce elite soldiers through mechanical and biological augmentation. The SPARTAN-II program would be the first in the series to meld [[MJOLNIR armor|advanced mechanical technology]] with the troopers' superior physiques.
The '''SPARTAN-II Program''' was part of the [[SPARTAN Program]], an effort to produce elite soldiers through mechanical and biological augmentation. The SPARTAN-II program would be the first in the series to meld advanced exoskeleton technology with the soldiers superior physiques.


==History==
==History==
===Origins===
===Origins===
In the years following the deactivation of [[ORION Project|Project Orion]] in [[2506]] the effectiveness of small special forces, combating the insurrectionists became too large for the UNSC to manage. As the insurrectionist attacks were becoming more effective and the military's responses heavier, the need for large scale actions were becoming more and more necessary. By [[2517]] the [[Office of Naval Intelligence]] concluded that the instability of the [[outer colonies]] would continue to escalate and unless drastic military measures were taken, it would result in a massive war between the inner colonies and the outer colonies.  
In the years following the deactivation of [[ORION Project|Project ORION]] in [[2506]] the effectiveness of small special forces, combating the insurrectionists became too large for the UNSC to manage. As the insurrectionist attacks were becoming more effective, and the military's responses heavier; the need for large scale military campaigns were becoming more and more necessary. By [[2517]] the [[Office of Naval Intelligence]] concluded that the instability of the [[outer colonies]] would continue to escalate and unless drastic military measures were taken, it would result in a massive war between the inner colonies and the outer colonies. The SPARTAN-II project, was conceived by [[Catherine Elizabeth Halsey|Dr. Catherine Halsey]] of ONI's Section 3, as the successor to the original ORION project and the best possible solution to end the conflict. The project was created with several goals in mind: First to create a group of elite soldiers meant to subdue insurrections in their infancy, without substantial military casualties. Second to minimize civilian casualties, and advert civil war. And third, to substantially reduce the cost of conventional means of pacification.  


The SPARTAN-II project, was conceived by [[Catherine Elizabeth Halsey|Dr. Catherine Halsey]] of ONI's Section 3, as the successor to the original Orion project and the best possible solution to end the conflict. The project was created with several goals in mind: First to create a group of elite soldiers meant to subdue insurrections in their infancy, without substantial military casualties. Second to minimize civilian casualties, and advert civil war. And third, to substantially reduce the cost of conventional means of pacification.  
Halsey's proposal of the project detailed radical changes in many different fields. The first and most controversial; is the subjects themselves, who are selected by a gene-candidate pool, and must fit into a certain age restriction protocol. They must also possess superior physical and mental attributes. The trainees must be instilled with military value, and the understanding of war; something that cannot be taught to enlisted soldiers. This narrowed the candidates down to children who would be raised, and taught in the art of warfare and military values, from a young age. A military project using such controversial means of creating a soldier, meant the project would have to be carried out in the highest form of secrecy.  


Halsey's proposal of the project detailed radical changes in how it is carried out, the first and most controversial, is the selection process and candidates, who are selected by a gene-candidate pool, and must fit into a certain and strict age restriction protocol. They must also possess superior physical and mental attributes. Which meant that the best possible subjects were children, who would be trained from a young age in the art of warfare. Which would mean that the project would have to be launched in the highest form of secrecy.  
Although conventional body armor has done its job for century's, the SPARTAN-II project's second radical change involved integrating the subject with a new powered exoskeleton device, designed to help keep its user safe, while providing a powerful means of combating enemy forces. The drawback is that this new armor would require augmenting the subject, effectively turning the Spartan into a human guinea-pig.


The next radical proposal in the SPARTAN-II project would be to integrate the subject into a new type of powered exoskeleton device, designed to help keep the subject safe, while providing a powerful means of combating enemy forces. The drawback is that the new armor would require augmenting the subject, effectively turning the subject into a human Guinea-Pig.
Despite the tremendous risk, and the unethical means of creating these new soldiers, the SPARTAN-II project was approved by the top brass within ONI, concluding that the risks far outweighed the lives that could be saved. By [[2517]], 150 suitable candidates, had been identified, but for budgetary reasons only half that number could be "conscripted". Seventy-Five children, all six years old of both sexes were kidnapped, and in order to preserve the program's secrecy, the children are replaced by [[Flash-Cloning|flash clones]] which would die soon thereafter due to numerous medical complications associated with flash-cloning an entire human being.
 
The proposal of SPARTAN-II project was viewed as extremely risky, the use of children under the legal age of enlistment, and carrying out unproven augmentation procedures was unethical; but as the situation in the colonies continued to deteriorate the project was approved by the top brass at ONI who came to the conclusion that the SPARTAN project was the only thing that was going to truly put a smart and safe end to the conflict. By [[2517]], 150 suitable candidates, had been identified, but for budgetary reasons only half that number could be "conscripted".  
 
Seventy-Five children, all six years old of both sexes were kidnapped, and in order to preserve the program's secrecy, the children are replaced by [[Flash-Cloning|flash clones]] which would die soon thereafter due to numerous medical complications associated with flash-cloning an entire human being.


===Training===
===Training===
Taken to the planet [[Reach]], these child-soldiers began training under [[Franklin Mendez|Chief Petty Officer Mendez]]. To marginalize the civilian lives they had once led, their names became a combination of their given names and a number, with family names being discarded. [[Seven]] years later they began receiving [[SPARTAN-II Augmentation Procedures|physical augmentations]] that would ultimately make them Spartans. The procedures were risky, as thirty died from the procedure, and twelve were crippled. These Spartans were discharged from the program and placed in non-combat positions where their enhanced mental faculties might still prove useful. Only thirty-three survived without complications and, now much improved, remained fit for combat duty. Those who died were cremated and their remains released in space.
The SPARTAN-II candidates after being sedated were taken to the colony world [[Reach]], and began their training under [[Franklin Mendez|Chief Petty Officer Mendez]]. To marginalize the civilian lives they had once led, their names became a combination of their given names and a number, with family names being discarded. The Spartans endured a great deal of hardship during their first years of training, the Spartans were placed into situation and drills that pushed them to their very limit and beyond. Their hard training was complemented with a good education, from math and science, reading and writing, to military tactics. His training methodology tough, even brutal in some regards; Chief Petty Officer Mendez always instilled discipline, honor, respect to the Spartans. He taught the Spartans how to kill, but at the same time he taught them the difference between what is right and what is wrong. Mendez trained the Spartans until [[2525]] when at the age of fourteen, the Spartans would go through the toughest part of their training; the  Augmentation Procedures a process that would kill 30 of the 75 children conscripted, and cripple 12 others who would "wash out" of the SPARTAN-II program; Only 33 survive the procedures and move on.  


=== The Human-Covenant War ===
=== The Human-Covenant War ===
The [[Human-Covenant War]] marked a change in objectives for the program, originally intended to quell rebellions, the Spartans were now forced into battle against a superior opponent to the [[UNSC]] this forced their training into it's final stage [[MJOLNIR|Project MJOLNIR]] outfitted with the Mark IV MJOLNIR armor the Spartans would be the first major UNSC response to the [[Covenant]] threat. During the course of the war, the Spartans frequently demonstrated their superiority over human insurrectionists who despite the Covenant threat continued to eroding the economic base in the outer colonies. Countless times throughout the war the Spartans proved highly effective against all threats they went up against, heroic rearguard and delaying actions saved countless human lives from the genocidal Covenant onslaught. In [[2547]], it was decided to make the SPARTAN-II program public, in an effort to boost morale among the UNSC, all the while making the Covenant see the SPARTANs as [[Demon]]s.
The [[Human-Covenant War]] marked a change in objectives for the program; originally intended to quell rebellions, the Spartans were now forced into battle against a superior opponent to the [[UNSC]], this new threat accelerated their training to its final phase: Project MJOLNIR. With the MJOLNIR armor, the Spartans would be the first major UNSC response to the [[Covenant]] threat. During the course of the war though, the Spartans frequently demonstrated their superiority over human insurrectionists who despite the Covenant threat, continued to eroding the economic base in the outer colonies. Countless times throughout the war the Spartans proved highly effective against all threats they went up against, heroic rearguard and delaying actions saved countless human lives from the genocidal Covenant onslaught. In [[2547]], The SPARTAN-II program goes public, in an effort to boost morale among the UNSC.
 
Inevitably the small number of SPARTAN-IIs dwindled as casualties were sustained. As the exploits of the Spartans was a major propaganda boom to the UNSC, Section Two of [[ONI]] issued [[Spartan MIA Protocol|Directive 930]] stating that Spartans killed or wounded would be listed as "Missing in Action" (MIA) or "Wounded in Action" (WIA), thus maintaining the illusion of Spartan invincibility.
 
In late [[2552]], all except three of the remaining active Spartans rendezvoused at [[Reach]] to receive new orders for an operation that [[UNSC High Command|HIGHCOM]] hoped would end the war. They would commandeer a Covenant vessel, locate the Covenant homeworld, and return with captured [[Prophet|Covenant leadership]] to force a ceasefire. To this end the Spartans were slated to be re-equipped with [[MJOLNIR armor#MJOLNIR Mark V|MJOLNIR Mark V]] suits. The [[A.I.]] [[Cortana]], carried within [[John-117]]'s armor, would serve as the strike force's hacker and technology specialist.
 
However, all preparations were interrupted and subsequently canceled by the Covenant [[Battle of Reach|assault on Reach]]. In the ensuing disaster most of the SPARTAN-IIs were killed. Only two escaped, aboard the {{UNSCShip|Pillar of Autumn}}, one was left in cryostasis aboard the ship after sustaining life threatening injuries from the battle, while the rest remained fighting for their lives on Reach.
 
Following the [[Battle of Installation 04|events at Alpha Halo]], the Spartans were reunited at Reach. They then carried out a strike that resulted in the [[Operation:_FIRST_STRIKE|destruction of a Covenant fleet anchorage]] which contributed to the UNSC victory at the [[First Battle of Earth]]. SPARTAN-IIs would go on to play pivotal roles at the [[Battle of Onyx]] and the [[Second Battle of Earth]].
 
== Technology ==
=== Biological Augmentation ===
{{Main|SPARTAN-II Augmentation Procedures}}
[[Admiral Ysionris Jeromi]] of the research station ''[[Hopeful]]'' documented the following experimental procedures on [[Bonobo Chimpanzees]]. These operations were later performed on the Spartan soldiers:
 
*''Carbide ceramic ossification:'' The grafting of advanced materials onto the skeletal structure to make bones almost unbreakable. If coverage exceeded 3 percent of the total bone, mass white blood cell necrosis was common. In adolescents, growth spurts could result in bone pulverization.
*''Muscular enhancement injections:'' An intra-muscular injection of a protein complex to increase tissue density and decrease lactose recovery time. Increased the risk of a fatal cardiac volume increase.
*''Catalytic thyroid implant:'' The implantation of a platinum pellet in the thyroid containing human growth hormone catalyst. This boosted growth of skeletal and muscle tissues. It was known to suppress the sexual drive and cause elephantiasis.
*''Occipital capillary reversal:'' Increased blood vessel flow beneath the rods and cones of the retina. Increases visual perception. Known to cause retina rejection and detachment, as well as permanent blindness.
*''Superconducting fabrication of neural dendrites:'' Altered the bio-electrical nerve trans-duction to shielded electronic trans-duction. Resulted in a 300 percent increase in reflexes. Showed evidence of an increase in intelligence, memory, and creativity. Often caused Parkinson's disease and Fletcher's syndrome.
 
The results of these experiments were used by the [[SPARTAN-III]] program designers to refine their bio-augmentation procedures.


====[[MJOLNIR Armor]]====
Inevitably the small number of SPARTAN-IIs dwindled as casualties were sustained. As the exploits of the Spartans was a major propaganda boom to the UNSC, ONI Section 2 issued [[Spartan MIA Protocol|Directive 930]] stating that Spartans killed or wounded would be listed as "Missing in Action" (MIA) or "Wounded in Action" (WIA), thus maintaining the illusion of Spartan invincibility. In late [[2552]], all except three of the remaining active Spartans rendezvoused at Reach to receive new orders for an operation that [[UNSC High Command|HIGHCOM]] hoped would end the war. They would commandeer a Covenant vessel, locate the Covenant homeworld, and return with captured [[Prophet|Covenant leadership]] to force a ceasefire. To this end the Spartans were slated to be re-equipped with MJOLNIR Mark V armor. The [[A.I.]] [[Cortana]], carried within [[John-117]]'s armor, would serve as the strike force's hacker and technology specialist.
[[Image:HWSPARTAN.PNG|thumb|right|A SPARTAN with Mark IV MJOLNIR armor from the early version of [[Halo Wars]]]]
The SPARTAN-II program was conceived in parallel with the development of the [[MJOLNIR armor]] (Pronounced: My-ol'-nir). The Spartans received the first practical forms of the armor, the Mark IV, in [[2525]], followed by the Mark V and Mark VI in [[2552]].


The demands of the armor were such that only the Spartans could wear them. A number of unaugmented Humans were killed attempting to use the suit during test trials because of the power the suit translated from normal movements.
However, all preparations were interrupted and subsequently canceled by the Covenant [[Battle of Reach|Assault on Reach]]. In the ensuing disaster most of the SPARTAN-IIs were killed. Only two escaped, aboard the {{UNSCShip|Pillar of Autumn}}, [[Linda-058|one]] was left in cryostasis aboard the ship after sustaining life threatening injuries from the battle, while the rest remained fighting for their lives on Reach. Following the [[Battle of Installation 04|events at Alpha Halo]], The survivors returned to Reach and were able to link up with the remaining Spartans. They then carried out a strike that resulted in the [[Operation:_FIRST_STRIKE|destruction of a Covenant fleet anchorage]] which contributed to the UNSC victory at the [[First Battle of Earth]]. SPARTAN-IIs would go on to play pivotal roles at the [[Battle of Onyx]] and the [[Second Battle of Earth]].
{{clear}}


==Background==
==Personnel==
====Surviving SPARTAN-IIs====
{{Quote|Die? Don't you know? Spartans never die...|Kurt-051 upon his death.}}
{{Quote|Die? Don't you know? Spartans never die...|Kurt-051 upon his death.}}


The identities of the Spartans' full names have been deleted from all military records. Only Dr. Halsey has secret files that contains the full names of all the Spartans on Reach, unfortunately the records were destroyed after the the planet was [[glassing|Glassed]]<ref>Halo PC Strategy Guide Page 2</ref>. Publicly only their first name and service tags are known with their current status.
The identities of the Spartans' full names have been deleted from all military records. Only Dr. Halsey has secret files that contains the full names of all the Spartans on Reach, unfortunately the records were destroyed after the the planet was [[glassing|Glassed]]<ref>Halo PC Strategy Guide Page 2</ref>. Publicly only their first name and service tags are known with their current status.


Spartans are only recorded as [[Wikipedia:missing in action|MIA]], even if there are eyewitnesses to their deaths. This was used as propaganda and maintains the morale of UNSC soldiers and the rumor that Spartans never die.
===Class I===
 
====Class I====
The following is the list of all currently known SPARTAN-II subjects conscripted in 2517.
The following is the list of all currently known SPARTAN-II subjects conscripted in 2517.


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*[[Spartan-Rene|Rene]] - Discharged.
*[[Spartan-Rene|Rene]] - Discharged.


====Class II====
===Class II===
Some children were conscripted into the Spartan program after the original IIs graduated. <ref>http://transmit.ilovebees.com/outbound/zero_motor_function.wav</ref> They were planned originally to begin conscription and training in 2525 -right after the graduation of Class I- but were postponed. This was due to Dr. Halsey's wish to further research into the augmentation process in hopes of Class II graduating with a larger survival rate. Yasmine Zaman was conscripted and Jannisary James was almost conscripted in [[2537]]. The SPARTANs likely finished their training around 2545.
After the graduation of the first class of SPARTAN-IIs in 2525, Dr. Halsey began planning for the next wave of Spartans, her efforts however ran into problems, there were too few candidates that were in sync with her age restriction protocol. By 2531 her funds had been diverted, and she was forced to postponed the effort indefinitely.<ref> [[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]] Chapter 2, Page 45</ref>
 
However in 2537 children were conscripted into the SPARTAN-II Program,<ref>http://transmit.ilovebees.com/outbound/zero_motor_function.wav</ref> trained, and went under the augmentation procedures, it is unknown how many may have survived the augmentation process, or if Dr. Halsey was involved with the second class. There is currently no record of their existence.
 
The following is the list of all currently known, or rumored SPARTAN-II subjects conscripted in 2537.


*[[Yasmine Zaman]] - Died from complications in Augmentation.
*[[Yasmine Zaman]] - Died from complications in Augmentation.
*[[SPARTAN-259]] - KIA/MIA Battle of Reach: 2552
*[[SPARTAN-259]] - KIA/MIA Battle of Reach: 2552
*[[SPARTAN-320]] - KIA/MIA Battle of Reach: 2552
*[[SPARTAN-320]] - KIA/MIA Battle of Reach: 2552
*[[Nicole-458]] - Trapped in the year [[2004]].


===SPARTAN-IIs Conscripted===
===SPARTAN-IIs Conscripted===
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Bungie, along with [[Eric S. Trautmann]], have said that these discrepancies only seem to be errors and that everything will be made clear in time.<ref>http://halostory.bungie.org/spartanroster.html</ref>
Bungie, along with [[Eric S. Trautmann]], have said that these discrepancies only seem to be errors and that everything will be made clear in time.<ref>http://halostory.bungie.org/spartanroster.html</ref>
==Equipment==
===Project MJOLNIR===
{{Main|MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor}}
The MJOLNIR Armor was created in parallel to the SPARTAN-II project and is the most advance piece of hardware in human hands, it can provide the SPARTAN-II with an incredible amount of protection, and amplifies the Spartans strength. The on board computer system relays basic tactical information including IFF tags, a Motion Tracker, and weapon and health readouts. The MJOLNIR system is capable of carrying a starship grade A.I which can provide tactical data on the fly.
===Specialized Neural Interface===
{{Main|Spartan Neural Interface}}
A specialized version of the Neural Interface is implanted into the skull of a SPARTAN-II. This allows a ship grade A.I to be carried on board the MJOLNIR armor. The standard Neural Interface along with the newer specialized version also provide the neural link between the SPARTAN-II and the MJOLNIR armor. 
===Spartan Augmentation Procedures===
{{main|SPARTAN-II Augmentation Procedures}}
One of the essential, and most dangerous aspects of the SPARTAN-II Program, is the augmentation procedure that a Spartan must endure. The process consists of many injections, and surgery's. Only a small percentage of subjects survive the process, and fully recover. 


==Trivia==
==Trivia==
[[Image:Spartan1_sm.jpg|thumb|220px|A SPARTAN-II in Halo Wars]]
*The [[Marines]] refer to all [[UNSC Navy|Navy]] personnel as ''Swabbie'', including Spartans though it has only been observed with [[John-117]].
*The [[Marines]] refer to all [[UNSC Navy|Navy]] personnel as ''Swabbie'', including Spartans though it has only been observed with [[John-117]].
*The Spartans are based on the ancient Greeks from Sparta, known for their military might and extreme training regiments and were, at the time, the greatest infantry fighting force in the world. Similarly, it is also reminiscent of the Turkish [[wikipedia:Jannisary|Jannisary Corps]], where sons of Christian families were taken and trained under strict discipline and in practically monastic conditions, to become the elite fighting force of the Ottoman Empire.
*The Spartans are based on the ancient Greeks from Sparta, known for their military might and extreme training regiments and were, at the time, the greatest infantry fighting force in the world. Similarly, it is also reminiscent of the Turkish [[wikipedia:Jannisary|Jannisary Corps]], where sons of Christian families were taken and trained under strict discipline and in practically monastic conditions, to become the elite fighting force of the Ottoman Empire.
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*In [[Halo Wars]], some Spartans will say "Yippe-ki-yay" after killing an enemy, a reference to Bruce Willis in his popular Die Hard series after killing the main boss in each film.
*In [[Halo Wars]], some Spartans will say "Yippe-ki-yay" after killing an enemy, a reference to Bruce Willis in his popular Die Hard series after killing the main boss in each film.
*Sometimes, Spartans will shout, "For [[Samuel-034|Samuel]]!", during battles in [[Halo Wars]], as a refrence to Samuel-034's death on the Covenant Ship in [[Fall of Reach]].  
*Sometimes, Spartans will shout, "For [[Samuel-034|Samuel]]!", during battles in [[Halo Wars]], as a refrence to Samuel-034's death on the Covenant Ship in [[Fall of Reach]].  
*There are still [[7]] unnamed non-washed out Spartan IIs.
*The Spartan-II seal resembles the Presidential Seal of Modern Day United States. It also has the [[Marathon (Video Game Series)]] symbol above the Eagle.
*The Spartan-II seal resembles the Presidential Seal of Modern Day United States. It also has the [[Marathon (Video Game Series)]] symbol above the Eagle.


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery>
<gallery>
Image:Fall of Reach.jpg|Four SPARTAN-II Soldiers in 2552
Image:Awakening.jpg|A SPARTAN-II in MJOLNIR Mark V Armor undergoing testing.
Image:Goingtoactivatehalo.JPG|SPARTAN-117: John, the most recognized SPARTAN-II.
Image:Masterchiefnobarcode.jpg|SPARTAN-117, John the most well known SPARTAN-II in the mythology.
Image:GoO-SPARTANs.jpg|[[Kelly-087]],[[Frederic-104]],and [[Kurt-051]] in [[Halo: Ghost of Onyx]].
Image:GoO-SPARTANs.jpg|[[Kelly-087]],[[Frederic-104]],and [[Kurt-051]] in [[Halo: Ghost of Onyx]].
Image:Hijacking_Spartan.jpg|A SPARTAN-II hijacking a [[Covenant]] [[Type-25 Assault Gun Carriage|Wraith]] in [[Halo Wars]].
Image:Web spartan.jpg|A Spartan-II in Mark IV MJOLNIR Armor.
Image:SPARTAN-II_Super_Soldiers.jpg|Three SPARTAN-II's in combat.
Image:SPARTAN-II_Super_Soldiers.jpg|Three SPARTAN-II's in combat.
</gallery>
</gallery>


==References==
==References==
<references/>
<references/>
==Related Links==
===Internal Links===
*[[SPARTAN-III|The SPARTAN-III Program.]]
*[[Semi Powered Infiltration Armor]]
*[[Nicole-458]]


{{Spartan II}}
{{Spartan II}}
 
{{UNSC Services}}
{{Halo Wars UNSC Units}}


[[de:SPARTAN-II]]
[[de:SPARTAN-II]]
[[Category:UNSC]]
[[Category:UNSC]]

Revision as of 22:57, June 29, 2009

Template:Ratings Template:Infobox Military Unit

"You have been called upon to serve, you will be trained...and you will become the best we can make of you. You will be the Protectors of Earth and all her Colonies"
— Dr. Halsey to SPARTAN recruits

The SPARTAN-II Program was part of the SPARTAN Program, an effort to produce elite soldiers through mechanical and biological augmentation. The SPARTAN-II program would be the first in the series to meld advanced exoskeleton technology with the soldiers superior physiques.

History

Origins

In the years following the deactivation of Project ORION in 2506 the effectiveness of small special forces, combating the insurrectionists became too large for the UNSC to manage. As the insurrectionist attacks were becoming more effective, and the military's responses heavier; the need for large scale military campaigns were becoming more and more necessary. By 2517 the Office of Naval Intelligence concluded that the instability of the outer colonies would continue to escalate and unless drastic military measures were taken, it would result in a massive war between the inner colonies and the outer colonies. The SPARTAN-II project, was conceived by Dr. Catherine Halsey of ONI's Section 3, as the successor to the original ORION project and the best possible solution to end the conflict. The project was created with several goals in mind: First to create a group of elite soldiers meant to subdue insurrections in their infancy, without substantial military casualties. Second to minimize civilian casualties, and advert civil war. And third, to substantially reduce the cost of conventional means of pacification.

Halsey's proposal of the project detailed radical changes in many different fields. The first and most controversial; is the subjects themselves, who are selected by a gene-candidate pool, and must fit into a certain age restriction protocol. They must also possess superior physical and mental attributes. The trainees must be instilled with military value, and the understanding of war; something that cannot be taught to enlisted soldiers. This narrowed the candidates down to children who would be raised, and taught in the art of warfare and military values, from a young age. A military project using such controversial means of creating a soldier, meant the project would have to be carried out in the highest form of secrecy.

Although conventional body armor has done its job for century's, the SPARTAN-II project's second radical change involved integrating the subject with a new powered exoskeleton device, designed to help keep its user safe, while providing a powerful means of combating enemy forces. The drawback is that this new armor would require augmenting the subject, effectively turning the Spartan into a human guinea-pig.

Despite the tremendous risk, and the unethical means of creating these new soldiers, the SPARTAN-II project was approved by the top brass within ONI, concluding that the risks far outweighed the lives that could be saved. By 2517, 150 suitable candidates, had been identified, but for budgetary reasons only half that number could be "conscripted". Seventy-Five children, all six years old of both sexes were kidnapped, and in order to preserve the program's secrecy, the children are replaced by flash clones which would die soon thereafter due to numerous medical complications associated with flash-cloning an entire human being.

Training

The SPARTAN-II candidates after being sedated were taken to the colony world Reach, and began their training under Chief Petty Officer Mendez. To marginalize the civilian lives they had once led, their names became a combination of their given names and a number, with family names being discarded. The Spartans endured a great deal of hardship during their first years of training, the Spartans were placed into situation and drills that pushed them to their very limit and beyond. Their hard training was complemented with a good education, from math and science, reading and writing, to military tactics. His training methodology tough, even brutal in some regards; Chief Petty Officer Mendez always instilled discipline, honor, respect to the Spartans. He taught the Spartans how to kill, but at the same time he taught them the difference between what is right and what is wrong. Mendez trained the Spartans until 2525 when at the age of fourteen, the Spartans would go through the toughest part of their training; the Augmentation Procedures a process that would kill 30 of the 75 children conscripted, and cripple 12 others who would "wash out" of the SPARTAN-II program; Only 33 survive the procedures and move on.

The Human-Covenant War

The Human-Covenant War marked a change in objectives for the program; originally intended to quell rebellions, the Spartans were now forced into battle against a superior opponent to the UNSC, this new threat accelerated their training to its final phase: Project MJOLNIR. With the MJOLNIR armor, the Spartans would be the first major UNSC response to the Covenant threat. During the course of the war though, the Spartans frequently demonstrated their superiority over human insurrectionists who despite the Covenant threat, continued to eroding the economic base in the outer colonies. Countless times throughout the war the Spartans proved highly effective against all threats they went up against, heroic rearguard and delaying actions saved countless human lives from the genocidal Covenant onslaught. In 2547, The SPARTAN-II program goes public, in an effort to boost morale among the UNSC.

Inevitably the small number of SPARTAN-IIs dwindled as casualties were sustained. As the exploits of the Spartans was a major propaganda boom to the UNSC, ONI Section 2 issued Directive 930 stating that Spartans killed or wounded would be listed as "Missing in Action" (MIA) or "Wounded in Action" (WIA), thus maintaining the illusion of Spartan invincibility. In late 2552, all except three of the remaining active Spartans rendezvoused at Reach to receive new orders for an operation that HIGHCOM hoped would end the war. They would commandeer a Covenant vessel, locate the Covenant homeworld, and return with captured Covenant leadership to force a ceasefire. To this end the Spartans were slated to be re-equipped with MJOLNIR Mark V armor. The A.I. Cortana, carried within John-117's armor, would serve as the strike force's hacker and technology specialist.

However, all preparations were interrupted and subsequently canceled by the Covenant Assault on Reach. In the ensuing disaster most of the SPARTAN-IIs were killed. Only two escaped, aboard the UNSC Pillar of Autumn, one was left in cryostasis aboard the ship after sustaining life threatening injuries from the battle, while the rest remained fighting for their lives on Reach. Following the events at Alpha Halo, The survivors returned to Reach and were able to link up with the remaining Spartans. They then carried out a strike that resulted in the destruction of a Covenant fleet anchorage which contributed to the UNSC victory at the First Battle of Earth. SPARTAN-IIs would go on to play pivotal roles at the Battle of Onyx and the Second Battle of Earth.

Personnel

"Die? Don't you know? Spartans never die..."
— Kurt-051 upon his death.

The identities of the Spartans' full names have been deleted from all military records. Only Dr. Halsey has secret files that contains the full names of all the Spartans on Reach, unfortunately the records were destroyed after the the planet was Glassed[1]. Publicly only their first name and service tags are known with their current status.

Class I

The following is the list of all currently known SPARTAN-II subjects conscripted in 2517.

Class II

After the graduation of the first class of SPARTAN-IIs in 2525, Dr. Halsey began planning for the next wave of Spartans, her efforts however ran into problems, there were too few candidates that were in sync with her age restriction protocol. By 2531 her funds had been diverted, and she was forced to postponed the effort indefinitely.[2]

However in 2537 children were conscripted into the SPARTAN-II Program,[3] trained, and went under the augmentation procedures, it is unknown how many may have survived the augmentation process, or if Dr. Halsey was involved with the second class. There is currently no record of their existence.

The following is the list of all currently known, or rumored SPARTAN-II subjects conscripted in 2537.

SPARTAN-IIs Conscripted

There is some confusion concerning the number of SPARTAN-IIs throughout the series. For example In Halo: The Fall of Reach, it is cited on page 46 that there are 75 children on board a pelican for a training mission, however on page 47 it states that there were 67 children on the training mission out of 75 that were originally on board. No mention is made of the whereabouts of the missing 8. After the augmentation process all 75 reappear, with 33 surviving, 12 surviving but crippled, and 30 being killed as a result of the procedures.

The status of SPARTAN-IIs is muddied further in the later novels. For example, Kurt-051 is listed as missing in action presumed dead in 2531 when in reality he was drafted into the SPARTAN-III Program until his real death in 2552 on Onyx. Three Spartans, designated Gray Team, were said to have been on "fields of battle too distant to be easily recalled" prior to the Battle of Reach[4]. In Halo: Ghosts of Onyx these three were said not to have been heard from for a year. The book, "Halo: The Cole Protocol" features Gray Team as major characters, but did not explain why they had not been heard from. It is also stated in Fall of Reach that there are 25 Spartans present during the Battle of Reach[5], however later it states that there are 30 Spartans present[6]. This number is maintained in Halo: First Strike.[7]

The most current count of Spartans comes from Halo Wars timeline that states that 25 of the 28 remaining Spartans were present at Reach. The remaining three Spartans are generally assumed to be Grey Team, whose status at that time is still unknown. This information also confirms that since the Augmentation of the Spartans five had since gone missing or had died. Samuel, Kurt, Randall, and Sheila are part of this count, with the final Spartan likely the one "too wounded to continue active duty".

Bungie, along with Eric S. Trautmann, have said that these discrepancies only seem to be errors and that everything will be made clear in time.[8]

Equipment

Project MJOLNIR

Main article: MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor

The MJOLNIR Armor was created in parallel to the SPARTAN-II project and is the most advance piece of hardware in human hands, it can provide the SPARTAN-II with an incredible amount of protection, and amplifies the Spartans strength. The on board computer system relays basic tactical information including IFF tags, a Motion Tracker, and weapon and health readouts. The MJOLNIR system is capable of carrying a starship grade A.I which can provide tactical data on the fly.

Specialized Neural Interface

Main article: Spartan Neural Interface

A specialized version of the Neural Interface is implanted into the skull of a SPARTAN-II. This allows a ship grade A.I to be carried on board the MJOLNIR armor. The standard Neural Interface along with the newer specialized version also provide the neural link between the SPARTAN-II and the MJOLNIR armor.

Spartan Augmentation Procedures

Main article: SPARTAN-II Augmentation Procedures

One of the essential, and most dangerous aspects of the SPARTAN-II Program, is the augmentation procedure that a Spartan must endure. The process consists of many injections, and surgery's. Only a small percentage of subjects survive the process, and fully recover.

Trivia

  • The Marines refer to all Navy personnel as Swabbie, including Spartans though it has only been observed with John-117.
  • The Spartans are based on the ancient Greeks from Sparta, known for their military might and extreme training regiments and were, at the time, the greatest infantry fighting force in the world. Similarly, it is also reminiscent of the Turkish Jannisary Corps, where sons of Christian families were taken and trained under strict discipline and in practically monastic conditions, to become the elite fighting force of the Ottoman Empire.
  • In Sparta, to become a warrior the child had to have no mental disability and could not be crippled. Training also began at an early age, usually at the age of 7. This is much like the SPARTAN-II's augmentations and training.
  • The SPARTAN-II Program was incorrectly referred to as the first group of super soldiers ever made by humanity on the back cover of Halo: The Fall of Reach. The SPARTAN-I Program was an element of Project: Orion, which occurred years earlier. However, this maybe officially the first successful group of Spartan's to see combat, whereas Avery J. Johnson was the only confirmed member of the ORION Project to participate in the war.
  • Despite ranking higher than some of the other UNSC Marine forces, most Spartan IIs have no official command authority over friendly troops assisting them in action.
  • In campaign gameplay, John-117 is the only Spartan that you can control and you can see. The games refer to him as the last surviving or, in Halo 3, active Spartan, contradicting other sources.
  • The Halo 3 Achievements "UNSC Spartan" and "Spartan Officer" both show the official Spartan-II seal.
  • In Halo Wars, if a Spartan on the opposing team is killed in front of other units, one may say "They can die!?" showing that those units were told the Spartans were invincible.
  • In Halo Wars, some Spartans will say "Yippe-ki-yay" after killing an enemy, a reference to Bruce Willis in his popular Die Hard series after killing the main boss in each film.
  • Sometimes, Spartans will shout, "For Samuel!", during battles in Halo Wars, as a refrence to Samuel-034's death on the Covenant Ship in Fall of Reach.
  • The Spartan-II seal resembles the Presidential Seal of Modern Day United States. It also has the Marathon (Video Game Series) symbol above the Eagle.

Gallery

  • Awakening.jpg

    A SPARTAN-II in MJOLNIR Mark V Armor undergoing testing.

  • Masterchiefnobarcode.jpg

    SPARTAN-117, John the most well known SPARTAN-II in the mythology.

  • SPARTAN-II Super Soldiers.jpg

    Three SPARTAN-II's in combat.

References

  1. ^ Halo PC Strategy Guide Page 2
  2. ^ Halo: Ghosts of Onyx Chapter 2, Page 45
  3. ^ http://transmit.ilovebees.com/outbound/zero_motor_function.wav
  4. ^ The Cole Protocol Official announcement
  5. ^ Fall of Reach Chapter 26 Page 240
  6. ^ Fall of Reach Chapter 29 Page 276
  7. ^ First Strike Chapter 1 Page 7
  8. ^ http://halostory.bungie.org/spartanroster.html

Related Links

Internal Links

v • d • e
 
Known Spartan-II candidates
James-005 • Jai-006 • Li-008 • Naomi-010 • Leon-011 • Kirk-018 • Serin-019 • Daisy-023 • Robert-025 • Riz-028 • Joshua-029 • Vinh-030 • Otto-031 • Samuel-034 • Randall-037 • Isaac-039 • Douglas-042 • William-043 • Anton-044 • Keiichi-047 • Kurt-051 • Jorge-052 • Margaret-053 • Linda-058 • Malcolm-059 • Maria-062 • Sheila-065 • Soren-066 • Solomon-069 • SPARTAN-073 • Cassandra-075 • Arthur-079 • René-081 • Fhajad-084 • Kelly-087 • Jerome-092 • Grace-093 • Caleb-095 (not conscripted) • Musa-096 • August-099 • Victor-101 • Ralph-103 • Frederic-104 • Adriana-111 • John-117 • Michael-120 • Joseph-122 • Kai-125 • Oscar-129 • Alice-130 • Vannak-134 • Carris-137 • Cal-141 • Roma-143 • Edgar-150 • Unidentified Spartan • Beta-Romeo Actual • Red-Fifteen • Janissary James (not conscripted) • Nicole-458 • Yasmine Zaman
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