Orca

Specifications
Production Code	T-626
Speed	Flight: 628 kph

The original Orca aerial transport (Mk 1), first built in TN 1589, was initially used for tank transport. With the advent of the Heavy Gear in TN 1678, it was slightly modified into its Mk 2 incarnation and became the most common Gear transport in the Northern Hemisphere. Despite its many limitations and high radar visibility, it was considered to be a “lucky” machine by most pilots and seldom broke down.

Over time, it went though several upgrades and modifications, leading to the latest “Crusher” Orca (Mk 8), a more aggressive model designed and built during the War of the Alliance. The “Crusher” variant responded to a need for additional air support to fight the well-equipped colonial forces from Earth. While still primarily used for Gear transport, the Orca is occasionally used for tank or vehicle transport.

The greatest advantage of the Orca is its VTOL capability. Many Gear pilots would much rather be dropped by an Orca than by any other transport (such as the bulkier Dragonshark, which requires an airstrip) simply because they feel more secure about being picked up.