Trebuchet – Versatile fire support in the Alpha Strike

The trebuchet – versatile fire support in the Alpha Strike

The Trebuchet is a classic BattleMech of the medium weight class (50 tons) and a popular support mech in many BattleTech lances. With its ability to operate effectively both at range and in close combat, it offers a wide range of uses that can be fully exploited in BattleTech Alpha Strike. In this article, we look at the strengths and weaknesses of the trebuchet and give tips on how best to use it in Alpha Strike.

The trebuchet in profile

The Trebuchet was originally developed as a fire support mech to support lances from a distance with missile launchers. The best-known variant, the TBT-5N, is equipped with two LRM-15 launchers and three medium lasers. This configuration makes it a flexible mech that can deal damage at medium and long range.

In Alpha Strike, this is reflected in its profile values:

• – Damage (Dmg): Mostly solid values for long (L) and medium (M) range.
• Armor/Structure: As a 50-ton mech, it has average armor and structure, which does not make it a front-line fighter, but offers sufficient protection.
• Specials: Many trebuchet variants have the Indirect Fire (IF) ability, which makes it an ideal choice for indirect attacks.

Strengths and weaknesses of the trebuchet in Alpha Strike

Strengths:

1. Long-range support: With its LRM launchers and IF ability, the Trebuchet can attack enemies from a safe distance without coming into danger itself.
2. Flexibility: The medium lasers allow the trebuchet to be effective even at medium range when the opponent closes the distance.
3. Cost: The trebuchet is relatively inexpensive in many game variants and can be included in lances without breaking the budget.

Weaknesses:

1. Average armor: For a medium mech, the Trebuchet is solidly armored, but it cannot withstand massive attacks. Without support, it can be destroyed quickly.
2. Limited mobility: Compared to other medium mechs, the Trebuchet is not particularly fast, which makes it vulnerable to flanking attacks.
3. Ammo dependency: His main armament is based on missiles, which makes him dependent on ammunition and can limit his effectiveness in long campaign games.

Application strategies for the trebuchet

1st fire support from the second row

The Trebuchet is most effective when operating from a safe distance. Place it behind your foremost mechs so that it can use its LRM launchers to deal indirect damage. The IF ability allows it to hit enemies hiding behind cover as long as a spotter is present.

– Tip: Combine the trebuchet with a fast spotter such as a Jenner or Locust to make the most of its range.

2. edge protection

Despite its primary role as a ranged fighter, the Trebuchet can also operate effectively in the mid-range. If the enemy tries to attack your flanks, it can strike back with its medium lasers.

– Tip: Make sure the trebuchet has support in case it is attacked. A Griffin or a Shadow Hawk can be flank-safe companions.

3. focus on target prioritization

Use the trebuchet’s long range to take out softer targets such as light mechs or damaged enemies. You can often hit these units with indirect fire, even if they are hiding behind cover.

– Tip: Coordinate your attacks with other lance members to maximize the trebuchet’s damage.

Popular variants in Alpha Strike

• TBT-5N: The standard variant with LRM-15 launchers and medium lasers. Perfect for the role of fire support.
• TBT-5S: This variant replaces the LRM-15 with SRM-2 launchers, making it more suitable for close combat. However, it loses its long-range strength as a result.
• TBT-7M: This modernized version has improved LRM launchers and better armor, making it more versatile.

You can use the Master Unit List to find the right variant of the mech for you.

Lance assembly with the trebuchet

A trebuchet unfolds its full potential when it is part of a well-coordinated lance set:

• Classic fire lance:
  • Trebuchet (TBT-5N): Fire support.
  • Warhammer: Frontline fighters and damage dealers.
  • Griffin: Mobility and flank protection.
  • Archer: Additional long-range power.

• – Combined lance:
  • Trebuchet (TBT-5N): Indirect fire.
  • Phoenix Hawk: Mobility and close combat strength.
  • Catapult: long-distance escort.
  • Locust: Spotter and disruptive factor.

Conclusion

The Trebuchet is a versatile and effective support mech that can shine in Alpha Strike both on the defensive and offensive. With the right positioning and a well-coordinated combination of lances, it can dominate the battlefield and make life difficult for your opponents. Use his strengths, keep him away from direct confrontations and let him unleash his deadly firepower!