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UH-144 Falcon: Difference between revisions

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{{Era|UNSC|HCW|Post}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Center|''Falcon redirects here. For other uses, see [[Falcon (disambiguation)]].''}}
{{Center|''Falcon redirects here. For other uses, see [[Falcon (disambiguation)]].''}}
{{Vehicle infobox
{{Vehicle infobox
|name=UH-144 Falcon
|name=UH-144 Falcon
|image=[[File:HaloReach_-_Falcon.png|300px]]
|image=[[File:HaloReach - Falcon.png|300px]]
|manufacturer=[[Misriah Armory]]<ref name="universe">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/vehicles/falcon '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Falcon'']</ref>
|manufacturer=[[Misriah Armory]]<ref name="universe">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/vehicles/falcon '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Falcon'']</ref>
|line=
|line=
|model=UH-144<ref name="universe"/>
|model=UH-144{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
|cost=
|cost=
|length={{Convert|37.5|ft|m|sp=us|disp=flip}}<ref name="universe"/><ref name="EVG">''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]'', p. 67</ref>
|length={{Convert|37.5|ft|m|sp=us|disp=flip}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}<ref name="EVG">''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]'', p. 67</ref>
|width={{Convert|32.8|ft|m|sp=us|disp=flip}}<ref name="universe"/><ref name="EVG"/>
|width={{Convert|32.8|ft|m|sp=us|disp=flip}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}
|height={{Convert|13.6|ft|m|sp=us|disp=flip}}<ref name="universe"/>
|height={{Convert|13.6|ft|m|sp=us|disp=flip}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
|mass={{Convert|13.9|MT}}<ref name="universe"/>
|mass={{Convert|13.9|MT}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
|max speed={{Convert|296|km/h|mph|sp=us}}<ref name="universe"/>
|max speed={{Convert|296|km/h|mph|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
|engine=Twin jet engines<ref name="universe"/>
|engine=Twin jet engines{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
|hull=
|hull=
|armament=[[M638 autocannon|M638 20mm autocannon]]<ref name="stratguide">''[[Halo: Reach Official Strategy Guide]]'', p. 343</ref>
|armament=[[M638 autocannon|M638 20mm autocannon]]<ref name="stratguide">''[[Halo: Reach Official Strategy Guide]]'', p. 343</ref>
|crew=One [[pilot]],<ref name="universe"/> two door gunners<ref name="EVG"/>
|crew=One [[pilot]],{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} two door gunners{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}
|complement=Five passengers,<ref name="universe"/> including gunners<ref name="EVG"/>
|complement=Five passengers,{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} including gunners{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}
|consumables=
|consumables=
|othersystems=
|othersystems=
|firstuse=[[2497]]<ref name="universe"/>
|firstuse=[[2497]]{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
|service=*[[Insurrection]]<ref name="mythos">''[[Halo Mythos]]'', p. 56</ref>
|service=*[[Insurrection]]<ref name="mythos">''[[Halo Mythos]]'', p. 56</ref>
*[[Human-Covenant War]]<ref name="EVG"/>
*[[Human-Covenant War]]{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}
|role=*Troop transport<ref name="universe"/>
|role=*Troop transport{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
*Air-to-ground support<ref name="manual">''[[Halo: Reach]]'' [[MIL-FBS-295937(1)B Field Manual|manual]]</ref>
*Air-to-ground support<ref name="manual">''[[Halo: Reach]]'' [[MIL-FBS-295937(1)B Field Manual|manual]]</ref>
|affiliation=[[UNSC Army]]<ref name="universe"/>
|affiliation=
*[[UNSC Army]]{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
*[[UNSC Marine Corps]]
**[[Orbital Drop Shock Troopers]]{{Ref/Level|[[Halo: Reach]]|[[New Alexandria]]}}
}}
}}
The '''UH-144 Falcon''' is a versatile, multipurpose utility helicopter used by the [[UNSC Army]].{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} Manufactured by [[Misriah Armory]],{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}} the Falcon is used for troop transport and deployment, as well as air-to-ground support.{{Ref/Reuse|manual}} The primary utility helicopter within the [[United Nations Space Command]]'s sizable fleet of [[VTOL|vertical take-off and landing]] aircraft, the Falcon is one of the most popular transports within the Army, famed for its effective arsenal and speed.<ref name="old waypoint">[http://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/detail/3c8b0600-f216-4195-81dd-3eb10cf7ca38/falcon '''Halo Waypoint''': ''UH-144 Falcon''] (defunct, backup on [https://web.archive.org/web/20110314221131/http://halo.xbox.com/en-us/intel/theuniverse/tech/gallery/falcon/3c8b0600-f216-4195-81dd-3eb10cf7ca38 Archive.org])</ref>


The '''UH-144 Falcon''' is a versatile, multipurpose utility helicopter used by the [[UNSC Army]].<ref name="universe"/> Manufactured by [[Misriah Armory]],<ref name="EVG"/> the Falcon is used for troop transport and deployment, as well as air-to-ground support.<ref name="manual"/> The primary utility helicopter within the [[United Nations Space Command]]'s sizable fleet of [[VTOL|vertical take-off and landing]] aircraft, the Falcon is one of the most popular transports within the Army, famed for its effective arsenal and speed.<ref name="old waypoint">[http://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/detail/3c8b0600-f216-4195-81dd-3eb10cf7ca38/falcon '''Halo Waypoint''': ''UH-144 Falcon''] (defunct, backup on [https://web.archive.org/web/20110314221131/http://halo.xbox.com/en-us/intel/theuniverse/tech/gallery/falcon/3c8b0600-f216-4195-81dd-3eb10cf7ca38 Archive.org])</ref>
==Overview==
 
==Specifications==
===Design details===
===Design details===
The UH-144 Falcon is a versatile, multipurpose utility helicopter.<ref name="universe"/> Unlike the nimble [[AV-14 Hornet]] or the swift [[AV-22 Sparrowhawk]], the Falcon is exceptionally discrete, while remaining incredibly effective.<ref name="old waypoint"/> The Falcon gained favor within the [[UNSC Army]] for proving to be an economical alternative to the larger [[Pelican]] [[dropship]]s for short-range troop transportation and deployment.<ref name="universe"/> A pair of Falcons can easily and quickly transport a fully-equipped infantry [[squad]] faster than any previous helicopter, while providing overwhelming support fire, in most weather conditions.<ref name="old waypoint"/><ref>[http://halo.bungie.net/projects/reach/article.aspx?ucc=ordnance&cid=24585 '''Bungie.net''': ''UH-144 Falcon'']</ref> The Falcon's hull is sturdy, able to easily shrug off small arms fire and even certain heavier attacks.<ref>''[[Halo: Last Light]]'', p. 238</ref>
The UH-144 Falcon is a versatile, multipurpose utility helicopter.{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} Unlike the nimble [[AV-14 Hornet]] or the swift [[AV-22 Sparrowhawk]], the Falcon is exceptionally discreet, while remaining incredibly effective.{{Ref/Reuse|old waypoint}} The Falcon gained favor within the [[UNSC Army]] for proving to be an economical alternative to the larger [[Pelican]] [[dropship]]s for short-range troop transportation and deployment.{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} A pair of Falcons can easily and quickly transport a fully-equipped infantry [[squad]] faster than any previous helicopter, while providing overwhelming support fire, in most weather conditions.{{Ref/Reuse|old waypoint}}<ref>[http://halo.bungie.net/projects/reach/article.aspx?ucc=ordnance&cid=24585 '''Bungie.net''': ''UH-144 Falcon'']</ref> The Falcon's hull is sturdy, able to easily shrug off small arms fire and even certain heavier attacks.<ref>''[[Halo: Last Light]]'', p. 238</ref>


The frame of the Falcon is composed of a single elongated fuselage with a narrow, single-man cockpit and a large rear cabin, flanked by small wings.<ref name="universe"/> The [[pilot]] resides in the closed cockpit, while the crew have their choice of two gunner seats in extended buckets, two interior passenger seats, an aft bench, and a limited amount of standing room.<ref name="EVG"/><ref name="old waypoint"/> Gunners secured themselves within the Falcon with a safety harness that hung from the ceiling.<ref name="ll260">''Halo: Last Light'', p. 260</ref>
The frame of the Falcon is composed of a single elongated fuselage with a narrow, single-man cockpit and a large rear cabin, flanked by small wings.{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} The [[pilot]] resides in the closed cockpit, while the crew have their choice of two gunner seats in extended buckets, two interior passenger seats, an aft bench, and a limited amount of standing room.{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}{{Ref/Reuse|old waypoint}} Gunners secured themselves within the Falcon with a safety harness that hung from the ceiling.<ref name="ll260">''Halo: Last Light'', p. 260</ref>


===Propulsion===
===Propulsion===
The Falcon is a [[VTOL|vertical take-off and landing]] aircraft, equipped with a transverse rotor and engine pod on each wing. Although the rotors are powerful and capable of lifting a fully-loaded Falcon on their own, two dorsal-routed jet turbines provide most of the helicopter's thrust during forward flight.<ref name="universe"/> To take off, the Falcon's rotors are angled so that the rotor blades are horizontal. When the Falcon has reached the desired height, the pilot tilts the rotors forward so that the rotor blades are near vertical. In this mode, the wings provide some of the lift, and the rotors provide thrust as a propeller.<ref>''Halo: Reach''</ref>
The Falcon is a [[VTOL|vertical take-off and landing]] aircraft, equipped with a transverse rotor and engine pod on each wing. Although the rotors are powerful and capable of lifting a fully-loaded Falcon on their own, two dorsal-routed jet turbines provide most of the helicopter's thrust during forward flight.{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} To take off, the Falcon's rotors are angled so that the rotor blades are vertical. When the Falcon has reached the desired height, the pilot tilts the rotors forward so that the rotor blades are near horizontal. In this mode, the wings provide some of the lift, and the rotors provide thrust as a propeller.<ref>''Halo: Reach''</ref> It is still not however a true tilt-rotor aircraft, as the rotors do not tilt into a fully horizontal  position, relying primarily on the jet turbines for forward flight.


The twin-turbine system gives the Falcon an extremely agile range of maneuverability.<ref name="enc260">''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]'', p. 260 (2011)</ref> The Falcon's impressive maneuverability makes the helicopter an ideal aircraft for the tight confines of many battlefield environments, ranging from a narrow gorge, a dense forest, to even a skyscraper-laden cityscape.<ref name="EVG"/><ref name="old waypoint"/> The Falcon is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 296 kilometers per hour (184 miles per hour).<ref name="universe"/>
The twin-turbine system gives the Falcon an extremely agile range of maneuverability.<ref name="enc260">''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition)]]'', p. 260 (2011)</ref> The Falcon's impressive maneuverability makes the helicopter an ideal aircraft for the tight confines of many battlefield environments, ranging from a narrow gorge, a dense forest, to even a skyscraper-laden cityscape.{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}{{Ref/Reuse|old waypoint}} The Falcon is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 296 kilometers per hour (184 miles per hour).{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}


===Armaments===
===Armaments===
Distinguished by its unquestionably effective and relatively heavy weaponry,<ref name="EVG"/><ref name="old waypoint"/> the Falcon is capable of being fitted with a wide variety of armaments. The primary armament of the Falcon is an [[M638 autocannon|M638 20mm autocannon]], fixed in a nose turret below the pilot's main cabin. The autocannon provides effective suppressive fire when extracting or deploying personnel.<ref name="universe"/> Flanking the vehicle on both sides are modular weapon emplacements that vary depending on the Falcon variant.<ref name="old waypoint"/> The emplacements are installed on flexible mount [[hardpoint]]s on either side of the open cabin, selected at the discretion of the Falcon's crew.<ref name="universe"/> The UH-144A variant is armed with a pair of [[M460 Automatic Grenade Launcher]]s, while the UH-144S variant sports standard [[M247H machine gun|M247H 12.7mm heavy machine guns]]. Both have proven incredibly effective against [[Covenant]] aircraft and providing point-to-point suppressive and attack fire on enemy ground emplacements and infantry.<ref name="old waypoint"/>
Distinguished by its unquestionably effective and relatively heavy weaponry,{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}{{Ref/Reuse|old waypoint}} the Falcon is capable of being fitted with a wide variety of armaments. The primary armament of the Falcon is an [[M638 autocannon|M638 20mm autocannon]], fixed in a nose turret below the pilot's main cabin. The autocannon provides effective suppressive fire when extracting or deploying personnel.{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} Flanking the vehicle on both sides are modular weapon emplacements that vary depending on the Falcon variant.{{Ref/Reuse|old waypoint}} The emplacements are installed on flexible mount [[hardpoint]]s on either side of the open cabin, selected at the discretion of the Falcon's crew.{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} The UH-144A variant is armed with a pair of [[M460 automatic grenade launcher]]s, while the UH-144S variant sports standard [[M247H machine gun|M247H 12.7mm heavy machine guns]]. Both have proven incredibly effective against [[Covenant]] aircraft and providing point-to-point suppressive and attack fire on enemy ground emplacements and infantry.{{Ref/Reuse|old waypoint}}


==Variants==
==Variants==
*'''UH-144A''': The "attack" variant of the Falcon, armed with two side-mounted [[M460 Automatic Grenade Launcher]]s as secondary armament.<ref name="EVG"/>
*'''[[UH-144A Falcon]]''': The "attack" variant of the Falcon, armed with two side-mounted [[M460 automatic grenade launcher]]s as secondary armament.{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}
*'''UH-144S''': The "support" variant of the Falcon, armed with two side-mounted [[M247H Heavy Machine Gun]]s as secondary armament.<ref name="EVG"/>
<gallery>
File:HR GrenadierFalcon FrontQuarter2.png|The UH-144A Falcon. Note the nose mounted gun.
</gallery>
*'''[[UH-144S Falcon]]''': The "support" variant of the Falcon, armed with two side-mounted [[M247H Heavy Machine Gun]]s as secondary armament.{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}
<gallery>
File:Reach-UH144-Falcon-03.png|The UH-144S Falcon. Note the nose mounted gun.
</gallery>


==Operational history==
==Operational history==
The Falcon was introduced into service with the [[United Nations Space Command]] in [[2497]], though the helicopter only proved truly common with garrison forces of the [[UNSC Army]] on [[Inner Colony]] worlds.<ref name="universe"/> The Falcon was used during the [[Insurrection]].<ref name="mythos"/>
[[File:HM-UH144.png|thumb|200px|A UH-144 Falcon during the [[Insurrection]].{{Ref/Reuse|mythos}}]]
The Falcon was introduced into service with the [[United Nations Space Command]] in [[2497]], though the helicopter only proved truly common with garrison forces of the [[UNSC Army]] on [[Inner Colony]] worlds.{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} The Falcon was used during the [[Insurrection]].{{Ref/Reuse|mythos}}
 
Falcons were used throughout the [[Human-Covenant War]], including during the [[Battle of Fumirole]] in [[2552#April|April 2552]].<ref>''[[Deliver Hope]]''</ref> Falcons were used extensively during the [[Fall of Reach]] throughout the [[2552|summer of 2552]]. Notably, the Falcons [[Kilo 33]] and [[Kilo 34|34]] transported [[NOBLE Team]] to [[SWORD Base]] in an effort to end the [[Covenant]] assault on the facility.<ref>'''Halo: Reach''', campaign level, ''[[ONI: Sword Base]]''</ref> Numerous Falcons later participated in the [[Battle at Szurdok Ridge]].<ref>''Halo: Reach'', campaign level, ''[[Tip of the Spear]]''</ref> Falcons would later participate in evacuation efforts and troop movement operations during the [[Siege of New Alexandria]]. One would carry [[SPARTAN-B312]] to [[Caracalla Park]] to disable an {{Pattern|Ceudar|heavy corvette}} pinning down escaping civilian transport ships.<ref>'''Halo: Reach''', campaign level, ''[[Exodus]]''</ref> Later during the siege, B312 piloted a Falcon to aid UNSC forces across the city and take down Covenant jammers.<ref>'''Halo: Reach''', campaign level ''[[New Alexandria]]''</ref> Several Falcons later saw action during the [[Battle of Installation 04]], having survived the {{UNSCShip|Pillar of Autumn}}'s initial arrival on the ring in [[2552#September|September 2552]]. These craft aided [[Fireteam Raven]] in various ground actions against the Covenant occupational forces.<ref>''[[Halo: Fireteam Raven]]''</ref> Falcons were also used during the [[Battle for Earth]] with one such craft that crashed into a [[Unidentified hotel|hotel]] in the [[New Mombasa]] [[Section 21]] during the [[Battle of Mombasa]].<ref name="breakneck">''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]'', multiplayer map [[Breakneck]]</ref><ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20141012164719/https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/games/haloanniversary/maps ''Halo Waypoint'': Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary - Maps] (Original version is defunct, link to Copy)</ref>


Falcons were used throughout the [[Human-Covenant War]], including during the [[Battle of Fumirole]] in [[2552#April|April 2552]].<ref>''[[Deliver Hope]]''</ref> Falcons were used extensively during the [[Fall of Reach]] throughout the [[2552|summer of 2552]]. Notably, the Falcons [[Kilo 33]] and [[Kilo 34|34]] transported [[NOBLE Team]] to [[Sword Base]] in an effort to end the [[Covenant]] assault on the facility.<ref>'''Halo: Reach''', campaign level, ''[[ONI: Sword Base]]''</ref> Numerous Falcons later participated in the [[Battle at Szurdok Ridge]].<ref>''Halo: Reach'', campaign level, ''[[Tip of the Spear]]''</ref> Falcons would later participate in evacuation efforts and troop movement operations during the [[Siege of New Alexandria]]. One would carry [[SPARTAN-B312]] to [[Caracalla Park]] to disable an {{Class|SDV|heavy corvette}} pinning down escaping civilian transport ships.<ref>'''Halo: Reach''', campaign level, ''[[Exodus]]''</ref> Later during the siege, B312 piloted a Falcon to aid UNSC forces across the city and take down Covenant jammers.<ref>'''Halo: Reach''', campaign level ''[[New Alexandria (level)|New Alexandria]]''</ref> Several Falcons later saw action during the [[Battle of Installation 04]], having survived the {{UNSCShip|Pillar of Autumn}}'s initial arrival on the ring in [[2552#September|September 2552]]. These craft aided [[Fireteam Raven]] in various ground actions against the Covenant occupational forces.<ref>''[[Halo: Fireteam Raven]]''</ref>
During their [[Operation: JOVIAN WHISTLE|operation]] on [[Gao]] in [[2553]], the [[717th Xeno-Materials Exploitation Battalion]] was equipped with two UH-144S Falcons, used for patrol as well as troop and supply transportation. When the [[Keepers of the One Freedom]] attacked the [[battalion]], one of the Falcons was destroyed instantly and crashed into the [[Montero Vitality Center]], while the second shrugged off the attack and fled towards the village of [[Wendosa]].<ref name="LL162">''Halo: Last Light'', p. 162-168</ref> Over the course of the battalion's battle with the Keepers, the remaining Falcon provided troop transport and supply drops for the UNSC forces.<ref>''Halo: Last Light'', p. 235</ref> However, the Falcon was eventually crashed in the [[Montero Jungle]] when the [[pilot]] was killed mid-flight days later.{{Ref/Reuse|ll260}} As of [[2557]], the Falcon remains in active service with the UNSC Army.<ref name="feet first">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-feet-first '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Canon Fodder - Feet First'']</ref>


During their [[Operation: JOVIAN WHISTLE|operation]] on [[Gao]] in [[2553]], the [[717th Xeno-Materials Exploitation Battalion]] was equipped with two UH-144S Falcons, used for patrol as well as troop and supply transportation. When the [[Keepers of the One Freedom]] attacked the [[battalion]], one of the Falcons was destroyed instantly and crashed into the [[Montero Vitality Center]], while the second shrugged off the attack and fled towards the village of [[Wendosa]].<ref name="LL162">''Halo: Last Light'', p. 162-168</ref> Over the course of the battalion's battle with the Keepers, the remaining Falcon provided troop transport and supply drops for the UNSC forces.<ref>''Halo: Last Light'', p. 235</ref> However, the Falcon was eventually crashed in the [[Montero Jungle]] when the [[pilot]] was killed mid-flight days later.<ref name="ll260"/> As of [[2557]], the Falcon remains in active service with the UNSC Army.<ref name="feet first">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-feet-first '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Canon Fodder - Feet First'']</ref>
==Gameplay==
{{Main|Falcon}}
The Falcon is the primary playable UNSC air in ''[[Halo: Reach]]''.


==Production notes==
[[File:HR UH-144Falcon Concept 5.jpg|thumb|left|225px|Concept art of the UH-144 Falcon.]]
===''Halo: Reach''===
[[Marcus Lehto]] had played around with ideas for the Falcon since the release of ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', but didn't get a chance to realize it until ''Halo: Reach''.<ref>[https://twitter.com/game_fabricator/status/1145532132011335680 Marcus Lehto on Twitter] - ''Yes! I was playing around with 3D concepts of it right after HaloCE''</ref> One of these early ideas, shown below, bears a striking resemblance to what would become the Hornet. As seen in early concept art, it appears the Falcon would originally have possessed ducted air fans, like those of the [[AV-14 Attack VTOL|AV-14 Hornet]] and [[D77-TC Pelican]], rather than rotors.
Early renders of the Falcon from earlier stages of ''Reach''{{'}}s [[Development of Halo: Reach|development]] saw the aircraft labelled with decals reading "VMX-22". In the real-world, [[Wikipedia:VMX-22|VMX-22]] was an organisation responsible for testing the [[Wikipedia:Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey|MV-22B Osprey]] tiltrotor aircraft. The final game's model lacks these decals, though still retains some other unit markings such as [[Air Mobility Express]].
===''Halo 4''===
Falcons are seen flying past {{UNSCShip|Infinity}} in a [[:File:H4-E3-Campaign-10.jpg|screenshot]] from the ''[[Halo 4]]'' level ''[[Reclaimer (level)|Reclaimer]]'' released during the E3 2012 Xbox Media Briefing. However, they do not appear in the final version of the game. Concept art produced for the game suggests the vehicle was intended for inclusion in the game, alongside the AV-14 Hornet.<ref>[https://www.artstation.com/artwork/Brwkm '''Artstation''': ''Halo 4 - vehicles'']</ref>
===Other===
Some concept art for ''[[Halo: Outpost Discovery]]'' feature the Falcon as background detail.
==Trivia==
==Trivia==
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes}}
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes}}
*A [[Wikipedia:Falcon|falcon]] is a bird of prey, in keeping with the UNSC's tradition of naming atmospheric vehicles after real animals with the exceptions of the [[Longsword]], [[Shortsword]], and [[Sabre]], which are named after bladed weapons.  
*A [[Wikipedia:Falcon|falcon]] is a bird of prey, in keeping with the UNSC's tradition of naming atmospheric vehicles after real animals with the exceptions of the [[GA-TL1 Longsword]], [[B-65 Shortsword]], [[F-41 Broadsword]], and [[FSS-1000 Sabre]], which are named after bladed weapons.
*The Falcon is nicknamed the "[[M12 Force Application Vehicle|Warthog]] of the skies" by fans and Bungie employees.<ref>[http://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?cid=24623 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update: 01.29.10'']</ref>
*The Falcon is nicknamed the "[[M12 Force Application Vehicle|Warthog]] of the skies" by fans and Bungie employees.<ref>[http://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?cid=24623 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update: 01.29.10'']</ref>
*Superficially, the Falcon looks rather similar to the [[Wikipedia:United States Marine Corps|United States Marine Corps]]' [[Wikipedia:Bell-Boeing V-22 Osprey|V-22 Osprey tilt rotor]]. However, the Osprey's rotor blades tilt directly forward in flight.
*Superficially, the Falcon looks rather similar to the [[Wikipedia:United States Marine Corps|United States Marine Corps]]' [[Wikipedia:Bell-Boeing V-22 Osprey|V-22 Osprey tilt rotor]]. However, the Osprey's rotor blades tilt directly forward in flight.
*As seen in early concept art, it appears the Falcon would originally have possessed ducted air fans, like those of the [[AV-14 Attack VTOL|AV-14 Hornet]] and [[D77-TC Pelican]], rather than rotors.
*Much like UNSC aircraft in ''[[Halo Wars]]'', Falcons that cannot be piloted have yellow windshields. In campaign, if one punches out the windows of these Falcons, they'll notice that there is no character inside piloting the Falcon.
*A Falcon avatar gear is one of the bonus items included with the [[Halo: Reach Limited Edition|''Halo: Reach'' Limited]] and [[Halo: Reach Legendary Edition|Legendary]] editions.
*A Falcon avatar gear is one of the bonus items included with the [[Halo: Reach Limited Edition|''Halo: Reach'' Limited]] and [[Halo: Reach Legendary Edition|Legendary]] editions.
*Unlike most vehicles in ''Halo: Reach'', the smoke from a badly damaged Falcon blocks a substantial portion of the screen, increasing the difficulty of flying a critically damaged aircraft.
*Unless the player jumps on top of a rotor hub, he or she cannot be killed by the Falcon's rotors. However, touching the rotor hub will kill the player instantly.
*It is possible to fly the Falcon in the first level. The player must hit the Falcon that Jun is not in with an overcharged plasma pistol shot. When it falls, the Falcon has a small chance of flipping on the ground and forcing the pilot out.
*Due to balancing purposes, the Falcon in multiplayer lacks the chin-mounted autocannon that is normally usable by the pilot.<ref>[http://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_080610 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update: 08.06.10'']</ref>
*Elites can hijack Falcons in the campaign, disrupting the flow of the level and forcing the player to start it over again.
*Falcons are seen flying past {{UNSCShip|Infinity}} in a [[:File:H4-E3-Campaign-10.jpg|screenshot]] from the ''[[Halo 4]]'' level ''[[Reclaimer (level)|Reclaimer]]'' released during the E3 2012 Xbox Media Briefing. However, they do not appear in the final version of the game. Concept art produced for the game suggests the vehicle was intended for inclusion in the game, alongside the AV-14 Hornet.<ref>[https://www.artstation.com/artwork/Brwkm '''Artstation''': ''Halo 4 - vehicles'']</ref>


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:Early_Falcon_Concept.jpg|Falcon concept art produced between ''Halo 2'' and ''Halo 3''.
File:KatRun.jpg|A Falcon passing over Kat during the [[Battle of Fumirole]] in ''[[Deliver Hope]]''.
File:KatRun.jpg|A Falcon passing over Kat during the [[Battle of Fumirole]] in ''[[Deliver Hope]]''.
File:DeliverHope - Battle.png|A pair of Falcons glide into battle to support UNSC troopers in the Battle of Fumirole.
File:DeliverHope - Battle.png|A pair of Falcons glide into battle to support UNSC troopers in the Battle of Fumirole.
File:Falcon concept.jpg|Early concept art for the Falcon for ''[[Halo: Reach]]'' suggests that it was originally a helicopter.
File:HR_UH-144Falcon_Concept_1.jpg|Early concept art for the Falcon for ''[[Halo: Reach]]'' suggests that it was originally a conventional helicopter, as opposed to the tiltrotor design found in the final game.
File:VTOL.JPG|Concept art of the UH-144 Falcon.
File:HR_UH-144Falcon_Concept_2.jpg|Concept art of the UH-144 Falcon.
File:ReachConcept FalconDetail.jpg|A concept model of the Falcon.
File:HR_UH-144Falcon_Concept_6.jpg|Concept art of the UH-144 Falcon.
File:Ih falcon04.jpeg|Concept art of the Falcon, side view.
File:HR_UH-144Falcon_Concept_4.jpg|A concept model of the Falcon.
File:HR_UH-144Falcon_Concept_3.jpg|Concept art of the Falcon, side view.
File:HR_UH-144Falcon_Rotor_Concept.jpg|Concept art of the Falcon's rotors.
File:HR_UH-144Falcon_TroopBay_Concept.jpg|Concept art of the Falcon's troop bay.
File:HR FalconMG Concept.jpg|Concept art of the Falcon's side-mounted weapons.
File:FalconTrans.png|A few of the original renders, note the chin gun.
File:FalconTrans.png|A few of the original renders, note the chin gun.
File:Falcon turnarounds.jpg|Views of the Falcon from ''Halo: Reach'''s development.
File:Falcon turnarounds.jpg|Views of the Falcon from ''Halo: Reach''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s development.
File:Reach-UH144-Falcon-03.png|Another view of the Falcon.
File:FalconfromRvB.jpg|A Falcon lifting off.
File:Falcon - HUD.jpg|The Falcon's [[heads-up display]].
File:HR Winter Contingency Falcons.jpg|Two Falcons on [[Reach]].
File:HR Winter Contingency Falcons.jpg|Two Falcons on [[Reach]].
File:Winter_Contingency.JPG|Two UH-144 Falcons flying over a mountain.
File:Winter_Contingency.JPG|Two UH-144 Falcons flying over a mountain.
File:Halo Reach - ToTS gunner.jpg|View from one of the Falcon's grenade launchers.
File:Halo Reach - ToTS gunner.jpg|View from one of the Falcon's grenade launchers.
File:FalconPassenger.jpg|A Spartan sitting in a Falcon.
File:FalconPassenger.jpg|A Spartan-III sitting in a Falcon.
File:Halo Reach-ToTS Falcon.jpg|A Spartan firing one of the Falcon's grenade launchers.
File:Halo Reach-ToTS Falcon.jpg|A Spartan firing one of the Falcon's grenade launchers.
File:Falcon_Rough.jpg|A rough model of the Falcon, used in background battles.
File:Falconcontrols.JPG|The Falcon's cockpit.
File:Falconcontrols.JPG|The Falcon's cockpit.
File:H4-E3-Campaign-10.jpg|Falcons (near {{UNSCShip|Infinity}}) in an early build of ''[[Halo 4]]''.
File:H4_Falcon_Concept_1.jpg|Concept art of the Falcon for ''Halo 4''.
File:H4_Falcon_Concept_2.jpg|Concept art of the Falcon for ''Halo 4''.
File:HM-UH144.png|A UH-144 Falcon during the [[Insurrection]] in ''[[Halo Mythos]]''.
File:HFR_ChopperDown_1.jpg|A downed Falcon in ''[[Halo: Fireteam Raven]]''.
File:HFR_ChopperDown_1.jpg|A downed Falcon in ''[[Halo: Fireteam Raven]]''.
File:HOD ConceptArt Pelican Hangar.jpg|Concept art of a UH-144 Falcon in a hangar for ''[[Halo: Outpost Discovery]]''.
File:HINF Falcon Emblem.png|A ''[[Halo Infinite]]'' multiplayer emblem of the Falcon.
File:Enc22 Insurrection.png|Insurrectionists preparing to attack a UNSC UH-144 Falcon in the ''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition)]]''.
</gallery>
</gallery>


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*''[[Halo: Fireteam Raven]]''
*''[[Halo: Fireteam Raven]]''
*''[[Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual]]''
*''[[Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual]]''
 
*''[[Halo: Outpost Discovery]]''
*''[[Halo Infinite]]'' {{C|Emblem only}}
==Sources==
==Sources==
{{Reflist|2}}
{{Ref/Sources|2}}


{{UNSC Aircraft}}
{{Human aircraft}}


[[Category:UH-144 Falcons| ]]
[[Category:UH-144 Falcons| ]]
[[Category:Drivable Vehicles]]
[[Category:Drivable vehicles]]

Latest revision as of 13:52, July 31, 2023

Falcon redirects here. For other uses, see Falcon (disambiguation).
UH-144 Falcon
HaloReach - Falcon.png
Production information

Manufacturer:

Misriah Armory[1]

Model:

UH-144[1]

Technical specifications

Length:

11.4 meters (37.5 ft)[1][2]

Width:

10.0 meters (32.8 ft)[1][2]

Height:

4.1 meters (13.6 ft)[1]

Mass:

13.9 metric tons (13.7 LT; 15.3 ST)[1]

Maximum speed:

296 kilometers per hour (184 mph)[1]

Engine(s):

Twin jet engines[1]

Armament:

M638 20mm autocannon[3]

Crew:

One pilot,[1] two door gunners[2]

Complement:

Five passengers,[1] including gunners[2]

Usage

Year introduced:

2497[1]

In service:

Role(s):

  • Troop transport[1]
  • Air-to-ground support[5]

Affiliation:

 

The UH-144 Falcon is a versatile, multipurpose utility helicopter used by the UNSC Army.[1] Manufactured by Misriah Armory,[2] the Falcon is used for troop transport and deployment, as well as air-to-ground support.[5] The primary utility helicopter within the United Nations Space Command's sizable fleet of vertical take-off and landing aircraft, the Falcon is one of the most popular transports within the Army, famed for its effective arsenal and speed.[7]

Overview[edit]

Design details[edit]

The UH-144 Falcon is a versatile, multipurpose utility helicopter.[1] Unlike the nimble AV-14 Hornet or the swift AV-22 Sparrowhawk, the Falcon is exceptionally discreet, while remaining incredibly effective.[7] The Falcon gained favor within the UNSC Army for proving to be an economical alternative to the larger Pelican dropships for short-range troop transportation and deployment.[1] A pair of Falcons can easily and quickly transport a fully-equipped infantry squad faster than any previous helicopter, while providing overwhelming support fire, in most weather conditions.[7][8] The Falcon's hull is sturdy, able to easily shrug off small arms fire and even certain heavier attacks.[9]

The frame of the Falcon is composed of a single elongated fuselage with a narrow, single-man cockpit and a large rear cabin, flanked by small wings.[1] The pilot resides in the closed cockpit, while the crew have their choice of two gunner seats in extended buckets, two interior passenger seats, an aft bench, and a limited amount of standing room.[2][7] Gunners secured themselves within the Falcon with a safety harness that hung from the ceiling.[10]

Propulsion[edit]

The Falcon is a vertical take-off and landing aircraft, equipped with a transverse rotor and engine pod on each wing. Although the rotors are powerful and capable of lifting a fully-loaded Falcon on their own, two dorsal-routed jet turbines provide most of the helicopter's thrust during forward flight.[1] To take off, the Falcon's rotors are angled so that the rotor blades are vertical. When the Falcon has reached the desired height, the pilot tilts the rotors forward so that the rotor blades are near horizontal. In this mode, the wings provide some of the lift, and the rotors provide thrust as a propeller.[11] It is still not however a true tilt-rotor aircraft, as the rotors do not tilt into a fully horizontal position, relying primarily on the jet turbines for forward flight.

The twin-turbine system gives the Falcon an extremely agile range of maneuverability.[12] The Falcon's impressive maneuverability makes the helicopter an ideal aircraft for the tight confines of many battlefield environments, ranging from a narrow gorge, a dense forest, to even a skyscraper-laden cityscape.[2][7] The Falcon is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 296 kilometers per hour (184 miles per hour).[1]

Armaments[edit]

Distinguished by its unquestionably effective and relatively heavy weaponry,[2][7] the Falcon is capable of being fitted with a wide variety of armaments. The primary armament of the Falcon is an M638 20mm autocannon, fixed in a nose turret below the pilot's main cabin. The autocannon provides effective suppressive fire when extracting or deploying personnel.[1] Flanking the vehicle on both sides are modular weapon emplacements that vary depending on the Falcon variant.[7] The emplacements are installed on flexible mount hardpoints on either side of the open cabin, selected at the discretion of the Falcon's crew.[1] The UH-144A variant is armed with a pair of M460 automatic grenade launchers, while the UH-144S variant sports standard M247H 12.7mm heavy machine guns. Both have proven incredibly effective against Covenant aircraft and providing point-to-point suppressive and attack fire on enemy ground emplacements and infantry.[7]

Variants[edit]

  • The UH-144A Falcon. Note the nose mounted gun.

    The UH-144A Falcon. Note the nose mounted gun.

  • The UH-144S Falcon. Note the nose mounted gun.

    The UH-144S Falcon. Note the nose mounted gun.

Operational history[edit]

A UH-144 Falcon during the Insurrection.[4]

The Falcon was introduced into service with the United Nations Space Command in 2497, though the helicopter only proved truly common with garrison forces of the UNSC Army on Inner Colony worlds.[1] The Falcon was used during the Insurrection.[4]

Falcons were used throughout the Human-Covenant War, including during the Battle of Fumirole in April 2552.[13] Falcons were used extensively during the Fall of Reach throughout the summer of 2552. Notably, the Falcons Kilo 33 and 34 transported NOBLE Team to SWORD Base in an effort to end the Covenant assault on the facility.[14] Numerous Falcons later participated in the Battle at Szurdok Ridge.[15] Falcons would later participate in evacuation efforts and troop movement operations during the Siege of New Alexandria. One would carry SPARTAN-B312 to Caracalla Park to disable an Ceudar-pattern heavy corvette pinning down escaping civilian transport ships.[16] Later during the siege, B312 piloted a Falcon to aid UNSC forces across the city and take down Covenant jammers.[17] Several Falcons later saw action during the Battle of Installation 04, having survived the UNSC Pillar of Autumn's initial arrival on the ring in September 2552. These craft aided Fireteam Raven in various ground actions against the Covenant occupational forces.[18] Falcons were also used during the Battle for Earth with one such craft that crashed into a hotel in the New Mombasa Section 21 during the Battle of Mombasa.[19][20]

During their operation on Gao in 2553, the 717th Xeno-Materials Exploitation Battalion was equipped with two UH-144S Falcons, used for patrol as well as troop and supply transportation. When the Keepers of the One Freedom attacked the battalion, one of the Falcons was destroyed instantly and crashed into the Montero Vitality Center, while the second shrugged off the attack and fled towards the village of Wendosa.[21] Over the course of the battalion's battle with the Keepers, the remaining Falcon provided troop transport and supply drops for the UNSC forces.[22] However, the Falcon was eventually crashed in the Montero Jungle when the pilot was killed mid-flight days later.[10] As of 2557, the Falcon remains in active service with the UNSC Army.[23]

Gameplay[edit]

Main article: Falcon

The Falcon is the primary playable UNSC air in Halo: Reach.

Production notes[edit]

Concept art of the UH-144 Falcon.

Halo: Reach[edit]

Marcus Lehto had played around with ideas for the Falcon since the release of Halo: Combat Evolved, but didn't get a chance to realize it until Halo: Reach.[24] One of these early ideas, shown below, bears a striking resemblance to what would become the Hornet. As seen in early concept art, it appears the Falcon would originally have possessed ducted air fans, like those of the AV-14 Hornet and D77-TC Pelican, rather than rotors.

Early renders of the Falcon from earlier stages of Reach's development saw the aircraft labelled with decals reading "VMX-22". In the real-world, VMX-22 was an organisation responsible for testing the MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft. The final game's model lacks these decals, though still retains some other unit markings such as Air Mobility Express.

Halo 4[edit]

Falcons are seen flying past UNSC Infinity in a screenshot from the Halo 4 level Reclaimer released during the E3 2012 Xbox Media Briefing. However, they do not appear in the final version of the game. Concept art produced for the game suggests the vehicle was intended for inclusion in the game, alongside the AV-14 Hornet.[25]

Other[edit]

Some concept art for Halo: Outpost Discovery feature the Falcon as background detail.

Trivia[edit]

Main-Legendary.png See our gameplay information related to UH-144 Falcon on its gameplay page.
Main-Superintendent.png Browse more images in this article's gallery page.

Gallery[edit]

  • Falcon concept art produced between Halo 2 and Halo 3.

    Falcon concept art produced between Halo 2 and Halo 3.

  • A Falcon passing over Kat during the Battle of Fumirole in Deliver Hope.

    A Falcon passing over Kat during the Battle of Fumirole in Deliver Hope.

  • A pair of Falcons glide into battle to support UNSC troopers in the Battle of Fumirole.

    A pair of Falcons glide into battle to support UNSC troopers in the Battle of Fumirole.

  • Early concept art for the Falcon for Halo: Reach suggests that it was originally a conventional helicopter, as opposed to the tiltrotor design found in the final game.

    Early concept art for the Falcon for Halo: Reach suggests that it was originally a conventional helicopter, as opposed to the tiltrotor design found in the final game.

  • Concept art of the UH-144 Falcon.

    Concept art of the UH-144 Falcon.

  • Concept art of the UH-144 Falcon.

    Concept art of the UH-144 Falcon.

  • A concept model of the Falcon.

    A concept model of the Falcon.

  • Concept art of the Falcon, side view.

    Concept art of the Falcon, side view.

  • Concept art of the Falcon's rotors.

    Concept art of the Falcon's rotors.

  • Concept art of the Falcon's troop bay.

    Concept art of the Falcon's troop bay.

  • Concept art of the Falcon's side-mounted weapons.

    Concept art of the Falcon's side-mounted weapons.

  • A few of the original renders, note the chin gun.

    A few of the original renders, note the chin gun.

  • Views of the Falcon from Halo: Reach's development.

    Views of the Falcon from Halo: Reach's development.

  • Two Falcons on Reach.

    Two Falcons on Reach.

  • Two UH-144 Falcons flying over a mountain.

    Two UH-144 Falcons flying over a mountain.

  • View from one of the Falcon's grenade launchers.

    View from one of the Falcon's grenade launchers.

  • A Spartan-III sitting in a Falcon.

    A Spartan-III sitting in a Falcon.

  • A Spartan firing one of the Falcon's grenade launchers.

    A Spartan firing one of the Falcon's grenade launchers.

  • The Falcon's cockpit.

    The Falcon's cockpit.

  • A downed Falcon in Halo: Fireteam Raven.

    A downed Falcon in Halo: Fireteam Raven.

  • Concept art of a UH-144 Falcon in a hangar for Halo: Outpost Discovery.

    Concept art of a UH-144 Falcon in a hangar for Halo: Outpost Discovery.

  • A Halo Infinite multiplayer emblem of the Falcon.

    A Halo Infinite multiplayer emblem of the Falcon.

  • Insurrectionists preparing to attack a UNSC UH-144 Falcon in the Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition).

    Insurrectionists preparing to attack a UNSC UH-144 Falcon in the Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition).

List of appearances[edit]

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v Halo Waypoint: Falcon
  2. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, p. 67
  3. ^ Halo: Reach Official Strategy Guide, p. 343
  4. ^ a b c Halo Mythos, p. 56
  5. ^ a b Halo: Reach manual
  6. ^ Halo: Reach, campaign level New Alexandria
  7. ^ a b c d e f g h Halo Waypoint: UH-144 Falcon (defunct, backup on Archive.org)
  8. ^ Bungie.net: UH-144 Falcon
  9. ^ Halo: Last Light, p. 238
  10. ^ a b Halo: Last Light, p. 260
  11. ^ Halo: Reach
  12. ^ Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition), p. 260 (2011)
  13. ^ Deliver Hope
  14. ^ Halo: Reach, campaign level, ONI: Sword Base
  15. ^ Halo: Reach, campaign level, Tip of the Spear
  16. ^ Halo: Reach, campaign level, Exodus
  17. ^ Halo: Reach, campaign level New Alexandria
  18. ^ Halo: Fireteam Raven
  19. ^ Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, multiplayer map Breakneck
  20. ^ Halo Waypoint: Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary - Maps (Original version is defunct, link to Copy)
  21. ^ Halo: Last Light, p. 162-168
  22. ^ Halo: Last Light, p. 235
  23. ^ Halo Waypoint: Canon Fodder - Feet First
  24. ^ Marcus Lehto on Twitter - Yes! I was playing around with 3D concepts of it right after HaloCE
  25. ^ Artstation: Halo 4 - vehicles
  26. ^ Bungie.net: Bungie Weekly Update: 01.29.10

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