The Lexicon:

Military Technologies:

AMWS: a specific American jargon term that describes a common "assault rifle" – a long-range weapon meant to act as primary combat means for a TSF. Such rifle contains a 36mm chaingun sweeping weapon and usually a modular space for various attachments; the most common being 120mm gun and a barrel-extension module together with advanced suite of targeting computers meant to extend reach and firepower of 36mm rounds. Such rifles are a standard for all TSFs worldwide. Most also feature their own independent targeting systems that can be linked with fire-control system of "master" TSF.

ATSF Program: "Advanced Tactical Surface Program" was an American R&D effort to create a true 3rd Generation machine, starting in the late 80s. The program was inspired by predictions of then-influential General Ben Bragg, who predicted that with introduction of 2nd Generation TSFs, BETAs defeat via conventional means was possible within 2 decades. General argued that in the aftermath of such defeat, it was likely that remaining nations would then battle amongst each other to recover the G-Elements from Hive remains, as well as for other BETA-inspired technologies. Thus, the United States should prepare for the inevitability when its superiority would not be contested only by alien beings, but also by other terrestrial nations. As the result, the ATSF committee was formed, which drew-up a contest for "Next-generation machine, capable at very least of a superior performance in all fields compared to current-generation machines, with stealth capabilities". Two designs were proposed – the YF-22 "Raptor" by Lockweed Mardin, and YF-23 "Black Widow II" by Northrock. Both designs proved to be far beyond current-generation (to the point that initially the pilots had trouble reigning in the TSFs) and had superior combat capabilities, although the YF-23 proved to be marginally better, largely due to its novel close-combat focus. However, it was rejected, on the basis that it was too expensive to be feasible to mass-produce, and that YF-22's long-range combat approach made it easier to integrate into existing U.S combat doctrine. Sometime after projects completion, a note emerged in public press that implied that Raptor's selection was based on the fact that "it's stealth capacity was not only superior, but easier to utilize…". Since stealth is only effective against human opponents, this created an image of United States preparing to fight other nations without a care or consequence to BETA invasion, which sent ripples within international community. This is not accurate however, as the YF-23 posses the same stealth capacity as the Raptor, something that international public regularly forgets. Regardless, this made the ATSF a hot point for the debate regarding U.S international policy, especially as it becomes more and more apparent that Gen. Bragg's assessment has been proven false.

Delivery Capsule: Also known as "the Coffin", it is a delivery system meant to safely transport a TSF from outer space to Earth. The unit is composed of dense ceramic thermal armor and heavy lead internal armor. Both are meant to protect their cargo from heat of re-entry, but also Laser-class impacts and possible meteor impacts. The "coffins" also posses limited rocket propulsion for course correction and additional acceleration. Once they reach a pre-programmed attitude, shaped charges detonate given pieces of armor, allowing the capsule to swiftly fall apart. In a testament to tenacity of human engineering, even such "trash" has been carefully accounted for. Loaded with powerful, but otherwise simple electronic systems, the falling pieces of armor serve as a bait for possible Laser-class BETA. Their velocity while falling also makes them an incredibly potent kinetic-kill weapons.

Destroyer-class BETA: Known for its distinct front armor, which is capable of withstanding tremendous amount of damage. Piercing it with anything less than a 120mm tungsten penetration round necessitates repeated hits in exact same spot on the armor. The Destroyers form the vanguard of most BETA attacks, using their great speed and numbers to close in on enemies and protect the ranks behind them. They use their considerable momentum and armor to smash into the enemy, dealing massive damage. They posses two extra oval manipulators directly below front of their carapace, which can be used to pummel lying TSFs or smaller vehicles. However, the Destroyers lack any sort of back defense, and their unarmored hides can be easily pierced with 36mm shells. Their size and speed, coupled with rather poor detection capability makes their maneuvering exceptionally poor in anything by a frontal charge. Unfortunately, Destroyers are almost always followed by more agile Grapplers and Tanks.

Falcate Sword: The main melee halberd used by French armed forces TSFs. It is the longest weapon of its type within European arsenal (barring the Anti-fort Blades), which is ended in a unique, scythe-like tip, which enhances the weapons cutting and hacking capabilities. It's peculiar shape has given the rise to the famed "Sword of the Ripper" nickname that is all-time popular with French pilots.

Fort-class BETA: Towering at nearly 66 meters, the aptly-named Fort-class is the largest known form of BETA. Resembling a Hornet, the Fort traverses terrain on ten, long legs, each hard and strong enough to crush a TSF underneath it. Most of the creature is covered in hardy carapace that can withstand prolonged exposure to most "sweeper weapon" calibers; cannons of 100-or more millimeter diameter are recommended. Otherwise, it is possible to target thin space in between carapaces that are covered only by hardened muscles, however high-caliber weaponry is still recommended. Each Fort-class is mainly armed with a spike that can be launched at distance in whip like fashion. It can secrete potent acid that can easily dissolve TSF-grade armor. To top it off, A Fort-class can also carry smaller strains (like Tank-class, Laser-class or soldier classes) inside of it, to be deployed as needed, or to make for a nasty surprise for inexperienced pilots as they carelessly approach its corpse.

FWS-G1 Assault Cannon: The main weapon of French TSF force, the FWS is comparable to the European GWS-9 design, although it is somewhat more compact in its frame to make it more effective at close range. Like most assault rifles, it combines a sweeping properties of 36mm chaingun with another weapon, usually a 120mm cannon. The weapon was reportedly developed using the data obtained from America's own AMWS-21 model.

G-Element: Literally "Grey's Elements", this is a catch-them-all term for unique substances originally discovered within Athabasca Hive, and later within Yokohama Hive. Originally categorized by Doctor William Grey from Alamo Nuclear Institute, Grey Elements are highly exotic and toxic to human life. Their properties beyond that are not well understood – some G-Elements can manipulate gravity, others when subjected to electric current can increase or decrease mass, others subconduct in room temperature and there even exists one that has negative mass. How they are formed, or for what purpose remains unknows, as BETAs do not appear to be using them, and both seized Hives contained only trace amounts. Theories are abound that G-Elements may be some sort of BETA energy-production medium or by product of their life processes or energy consumption. It is obvious however, that whoever controls G-Elements, can gain a tremendous power…even if its poorly understood.

Grappler-class BETA: Standard close-range species, one of the most common. Posses a muscled, crab-like appearance with a head very similar to human head. It's main weapons are a set of claws made from incredibly dense carbons that can smash even very heavy uranium-laced armors. They can also absorb stray 36mm shots, though overall Grapplers lack armor protection. It's "head" is in fact a sensory unit, but it is not critical for BETAs functioning, and as such, headshots are not recommended.

Heavy Laser-class BETA: A large (21 meters tall) strain of BETA, widely considered to be one of the most dangerous enemies of mankind. Their heads contain one large eye, that is in fact a focal point for a powerful laser – incredibly coherent beam of light that is so powerful that it can burn through most conventional armors and other materials. The true strength of any laser-class however lies within their shocking accuracy and range – the BETA can his anything within 100km radius and within 500meter elevation. Their significantly more powerful beam however takes up more time to charge and reach full power while firing, which experienced pilots use to evade their fire. A "recharge" delay is about 36 seconds. The Heavy-laser class does not possess any significant armor, though its large bulk does posses some obstacle to 36mm rounds and knives – 120mm rounds and melee halberds are recommended for immediate kills. Like other laser strains, Heavy lasers are known to maintain a perfect, no-friendly-fire score.

Hives: Central structure from which BETAs spawn. A system of large, crystalline spire that can stretch several hundred meters above ground, and massive caverns that often stretch kilometers below it. The exact function of Hives is unknown, though they are largely considered to be BETAs sole command and control nodes and resupply points. Numbers of individual BETAs within a Hive is counted in millions. Forces attempting Hive infiltrations can expect at least 1 to 100 numbers disproportion. It is known that Hives contain powerful reactors. It is theorized that its destruction would render Hive inoperable or cause massive chain reaction that would destroy it and any surrounding BETA (and unfortunate soldiers who would not be able to exfiltrate in time.) Currently, there are 26 Hives located on Earth, 24 of which is located within confines of Eurasian landmass. Remaining two are located within Japan. 27th Hive – Athabasca Hive, was destroyed via saturated nuclear bombardment shortly after its arrival, when it had yet to deploy Laser-class BETA. To date, it is the only Hive destroyed. Hives are also classified into several different "Phases" that signify their size. Each higher phase means longer underground tunnels, more BETA and a bigger "Stab" (the crystalline sire). Following Phase 5, Hives gain the ability to launch objects in manner similar to Mass Drivers. It is currently unknown what the Hives are launching into space, although trajectories show these objects leaving the Sol System. It is likely that these may be proto-Hives that are meant to continue invasions elsewhere, or possible resource capsules.

As of the late 1999, a second Hive, located in Yokohama, Japan, has been destroyed. After intense, several-day battle by Japanese Imperial Forces and U.N Pacific Army Group, the Government of Japan has requested a deployment of G-bombs – a new American weapon developed from G-Elements – to the hive. Dropped from orbit by HSST Shuttle Atlantis, both bombs detonated above the Hive, completely destroying its stab and annihilating any BETA within. Following this- [REDACTED. CLASSIFIED INFORMATION REQUESTED. AVAILABLE ONLY ON 'FOR EYES-ONLY' BASIS, CODE VIOLET TACIT.]

Hive Infiltration: Operation designed to insert a group of TSFs into Hives, and systematically battle through waves of BETA into the central location of the Hive with objective to destroy massive reactors within. Widely regarded as most dangerous mission that can ever be issued to military personnel, they require massive diversionary battles and involvement of Orbital Divers to even succeed in getting to Hive itself, much less reaching its lower levels. To date, no Hive infiltration has succeeded. The only Hive destruction of Hive to date was achieved through nuclear saturation bombardment shortly after its landfall.

Laser-class BETA: Or simply "a Laser", these BETAs large, glassy eyes are in fact a focal mirrors of extremely power heat-and-energy beam weapon. The lasers posses a superior accuracy and range to almost any man-made weapon – anything within a 30km radius (and within a 10km elevation) is a fair game. With the laser's ability to perfectly track a target, and the inability of even advanced armors to withstand the beam for long, these BETA strains have long-since closed the skies for humanity. As an individual BETA strain, a basic Laser-class is somewhat vulnerable however – standing at 3 meters tall, they lack any armor or mass to slow down even a high-caliber hand-held rifles. However, they are fast-enough to follow with most smaller BETA classes, and their impressive range makes approaching them somewhat problematic. Their beams are considered somewhat less powerful than those of Heavy Laser-class, but can be fired only in 12 seconds.

Melee halberd: A common term for a "sword" or other longer-ranged melee weapon beyond knives. The halberds were originally designed by the Chinese, as it became apparent that in some situations, knives had too short of a range, and not enough cutting power to be effective. A melee halberd allows its user to keep some distance between an enemy and TSF, and can be struck with a greater force then a knife. However, it also requires more space to be carried. Although not requiring ammunition, intense usage does dull the blade or cause extensive internal stressing. As such, all modern melee halberds are equipped with sensors to measure its structural integrity. A halberd design is also differing based on a region – most EU nations uses a versatile "axe" design, while Soviets and the Chinese rely on a relatively heavy sword-type weapon. On the other hand, the Japanese have based their own melee halberds off the famed katana swords. America is the only major nation to not employ these weapons, barring several experimental models crafted for YF-23 design.

Orbital Divers: a specific branch of military, that focuses on direct Orbit-to-Surface TSF insertions. Orbital Divers are released in special capsules from Space Shuttles to descend into Earth's atmosphere, where after a point, the capsule falls apart, allowing the Divers TSF to maneuver and land safely. The Orbital Divers were originally developed by United Nations Armed Forces as means of Hive infiltration – the capsules were meant as much as to protect pilots from Lasers and atmosphere, as much as act as kinetic-kill weapons that would punch through the ground and open direct way for Divers into the Hive, saving the pilots a costly battle through entire length of caverns around it. Although ambitions, a pure Orbital Dive has never succeeded, on account of horrific numerical supremacy Diver pilots face within Hive itself. Regardless, Divers remain the most effective way of establishing beachheads within Hive's underground Halls. Some nations (like the United States), have also experimented with employing Orbital Divers as strategic rapid response force, meant to be deployed at backs of large BETA swarms on the surface as a support to spread-out groups.

PB Knife: Also known as a simple "knife" these are the main melee armaments of most TSFs. They have been directly derived from utility knife used by exoskeletons involved in space construction efforts. The weapons have since evolved into a "last-chance" melee weapon meant to save pilots from charging Tank-classes or other small-to-medium sized BETA strain. Although knives lack the range of melee halbers, they can be deployed quicker, take up less space, are lighter and cheaper to manufacture. Some TSF designs however, choose to eschew knives in place of "fixed" melee armaments, such as arm blades in European TSFs, or Soviet's own arm-mounted chainblades.

Reinforcement Suits: A highly advanced technology derived from 1960's space suits, these personal armors are a standard equipment for any surface pilot. In their basic form, the suit is composed of a hardened "exterior" on arms and vulnerable body parts, and an "internal" flexible material covering most of the torso and legs, that hardens upon impact or other external pressures. Additionally, a complete suit posses a strong neck brace to insulate pilots from high-G forces and a headset that is integrated with latest combat avionics – all headsets are capable of retinal projections from TSFs cameras allowing for screen-free cockpits, and can communicate with TSFs command systems within a 400 meter radius. In addition, they can record pilot's performance and compare it with older records, allowing for easy reconstruction of flight data and improvement on pilot's part. A reinforced suit is also equipped with a suite of systems meant to regulate pilot's life signs. Rather than use traditional harnesses, a pilot is kept is his seat by six restraining bolts – four on leg parts and two on arm sections. As a testament to their origins, a complete Reinforced Suit can sustain pilots life functions even in hostile conditions. It contains a 2-liter water pack, and an emergency system for purification of urine. It can also store up to 500 grams of excrements, although given that frontline synthetic food is designed for maximum digestibility and laced with drugs that suppress certain intestine functions, this is less of a problem. A fully powered-up suit can last for 12 hours, minimum operating mode can extend this to as much as 72 hours. The internal power source can be either manually replaced and recharged, or it can be plugged into a TSF seat – as long as TSFs power generator remains operational, the suit will draw power from it.

Most nations posses individual suit designs and color patterns (and sometimes these will even vary between individual squadrons), but most training suits are colored white with opaque reactive parts. On one hand, this allows to easily locate trainees in the field, and quickly locate any pressing, bleeding injuries. The color pattern also serves to break down most of the civilian inhibitions regarding privacy, as frontline rigors make no such distinctions.

Tactical Surface Fighter: A bi-pedal craft vaguely reminiscent of human shape, which serves as the mainstay of human military forces against the BETA advance. Usually shortened to TSF, their original purpose was to act as "walking tanks", though as technology and anti-BETA tactics developed, the focus shifted to more maneuverable crafts that focused on high firepower and omnidirectional movement capacity. The TSFs can move either via their legs, or through "booster engines" mounted at hips, that allow for limited aerial mobility. As such, TSFs have largely taken over the dormant niche of fighter crafts of older time periods. While forming the primary arm of any military, the TSFs commonly operate with other armored forces, sea assets and helicopters. A TSF pilot is generally titled as "Surface Pilot" or just "Pilot".

Tank-class BETA: A small-scale BETA strain. Noted for its six-legged appearance, bright red skin and massive mouth. The force that its muscles can exert are disproportionate to its size – and as such, the teeth can easily penetrate even tank or TSF armor. Between this, their overwhelming numbers and incredible speed on the battlefield, the Tank-class BETA are responsible for more pilot deaths then even Laser-class BETA. As such, more experienced pilots consider them priority targets. Although their skins poses no defense against TSF or vehicle-grade weaponry, most hand-held guns are only mildly effective against them. They are also known for emitting powerful sulphr odor.

Thinning Operation: Sometimes also called as a "raid" or "crowd control" such operation are made by nations on BETA frontlines into the areas that are believed to be a massing stages for BETA herds. Their aim is not to as much recapture territory as much as the destroy enough BETA to avoid potential territory invasion. Although costly, they are regarded by commanders and soldiers alike as a better alternative to otherwise costly and incredibly bloody defense battles against massed BETAs.

Supply Container: A large box that contains munitions, actual weapons or fuel, they are the primary means through which TSF pilots can resupply their crafts during prolonged operations. Normally, the containers can be space-dropped in same capsules as Orbital Diver's TSFs, and are equipped with rudimentary propulsion system to slow them down during descent. If necessary, most containers can also be towed by helicopters, although that generally requires lessening the container's mass, and as result, the available supplies. Although they can be easily destroyed, their cheap frame and ability to be deployed en masse to any battlefield more than makes up for it.

Political

European Union: expanded from original European Community after fall of most Warsaw Pact countries to BETA advance and uncertainty regarding American ability to uphold its NATO commitments. The EU is a qasi-federal system composed of most European nations (and elements of former Warsaw Pact countries after their official resignation from Warsaw Pact itself), it is responsible for defense of remaining European territories from BETA advance, and is also heavily involved in industrialization of Central Africa. The EU is largely dominated by United Kingdom, Republic of France, Federal Republic of Germany and Kingdom of Spain. Kingdom of Sweden, Swiss Confederation, Czechoslovakia, Restored Polish Commonwealth, Portugal and Italy are other influential members. The EU heavily co-operates with the UN in martial issues as well as transfer of refugees. Its technological levels is equal to that of United States, and its military prowess is considered likewise equal, if not greater.

Far-Eastern Alliance: A coalition of various colonial subjects and Empire of Japan itself. Established shortly prior to World War 2, it was allowed to continue after Japanese surrender, albeit with significantly increased member authority and heavily restricted military. After BETA invasion, the military limits were largely removed, and Far-Eastern Alliance remains one of the most martially-able superpowers. It has formed the COSEAN bloc within United Nations, afraid that their regional concerns might be ignored by American and European needs. However, with destruction of most Far-Eastern nations, Japan remains in principal the only still-powerful nation within this system.

Manifests: An impromptu term used to describe a specific, cross-party movement in the United States. Derived from the term "Manifest Destiny", Manifests believe that America should, as the most powerful nation, take a leading role in combating the BETA, and subsequently saving humanity. Although small, the movement has in recent days attracted some high-ranking officials within the White House. The movement is also at an all-time high within increasingly important refugee communities.

Middle-Eastern Coalition: A political alliance of several Middle-East nations that arose following a major BETA incursion into their spheres. The Union tries to co-ordinate their efforts against the BETA, though it is mired in internal struggle between several distinct factions, most prominent being the Iran-Syria axis and a more western-oriented Turkey block. Egypt is also an associated member, that also has a dual membership in African Union.

Soviet Union: A group of ostensibly Soviet republics ruled by a central Communist bureaucracy. One of key players of WWII, and main rival of capitalist United States after the War. One of the first nations to be invaded, the Soviet Union managed to fight off BETA for a time, first through sheer numbers of Red Army, and after elimination of its air forces through adoption and development of TSFs. It was eventually forced to deploy Weapons of Mass Destruction on its soil – which failed to stop BETA advance. After this, Soviets begun general retreat towards Asia, losing nearly all of Russia and disintegrating Soviet bloc in the process. Presently, most of reminder of Soviet forces are concentrated in Alaska, which was leased to Russians via a special agreement brokered by UN. It also controls a stretch of Siberia and Kamchatka, though these are mainly buffers between America and BETA-infested Asia.

United Front of China: A group that represents the remnants of original People's Liberation Army, and claims to be a natural continuation of People's Republic of China. Based formally on number of small islands (granted to it –over COSEAN objections- by the U.N), the UFC is tasked predominantly with maintaining a series of forward bases on Asian continent, as well as running continuous BETA thinning operations and containments. Given the extent of its armed forces (and massive losses to China's once monumental civilian populations) , it's frequently called "an army country". The UFC has historically maintained a very tense relations with Japan, which stretches back the WWII. Despite mediation by U.N, U.S and Soviet Union, neither factions seems to be getting closer to each other, and frequent historic revisions by both sides continue to be a major bone of contention, and rallying point for various extremist factions. Although acknowledged by Soviet Union, the UFC maintains more ambigious relationship with U.S, which has instead acknowledge Taiwan as legitimate continuation of Chinese government, even before BETA invasion; however that has not prevented American businesses and military observers from helping China in its own battle against BETA.

United Nations: an organization founded in the aftermath of Second World War and Atomic Bombing of Berlin. It was meant as a forum on which all nations could solve their issues without having to resort of war ever again. Ironically, in the aftermath of BETA invasion, the UN took a more martial role, first co-coordinating various national defense efforts, and as those efforts failed, it begun to integrate military blocks of various crumbling countries into its own structure. Today, the UN maintains the largest army in the world, responsible for containment of BETA around the world. It also continues to resolve various diplomatic issues, refugee problems and manages most of growing space industries. The higher-up levels of UN government had largely became autonomous, elected from inside of UN bureaucracy, although the UN Assembly continues to function, and is largely involved in most major decisions. The UN maintains two important command and control centers – the Assembly Building in New York, and the Citadel Space Station that serves as primary military command post.

TSF designs:

American:

F-4 Phantom:The "Grandfather of TSFs", Phantom was the first TSF design to be ever deployed. Originally following a "walking tank" doctrine, the development of booster-type jet engines allowed it a limited degree of flight capacity and nearly omnidirectional maneuverability. Although initial deployment of Phantoms largely ended in massacre (initial estimated time of pilot survival was around 8 minutes), the data obtained through these sacrifices allowed refiment of TSF design practices and combat tactics. The two newest models of Phantom, the F-4E and F-4N feature vastly improved internal components and more streamlined armor compared to previous models, as well as moderately advanced avionics and fire-control systems. These improvements have helped to maintain the machine's performance within 2nd Generation, despite the age of the construction. Licensed to several foreign nations, the Phantom's low price and ease of maintainability have ensured its continued use.

F-5 Freedom Fighter: Developed just after two years following deployment of Phantom, the Freedom Fighter represented a radical at the time design philosophy shift, focusing on higher maneuverability then endurance on which F-4 design was based. The machine was originally derived from Northrock's T-38 Talon trainer craft, which the U.S government was interested in repurposing into a full combat craft. While at the time U.S forces had no need for lightweight TSF, F-5 was easier to produce then F-4, and it was hoped that it would ease rather desperate demand problems for TSFs, with which American factories could not cope. Subsequently, F-5 design was rapidly licensed to foreign manufactures, as much from profit, as to improve warfront situation and make TSF supply chain more flexible. Despite possessing lower engine output and operational time than F-4, Freedom Fighter was decidedly more popular with Soviet and European troops, as its higher maneuverability proved to be a better advantage against BETA. Its low cost, ease of repair and modification has also made it a favorite of various foreign manufactures, and F-5 legacy is continued by a variety of models produced by Europe.

F-5 E/F Tiger II: The Tiger II was a significantly improved variant of original F-5, stemming from improvement in TSF manufacturing, technology and gathered military data. The machine features improved avionics, more powerful engines and improved detection capability, all while retaining the sturdy and cheap frame of the original. The machine was also the first Light-weight TSF widely employed by U.S forces. The E variant is a single-seat craft while G is a double-seater. Neither should also be confused with G-and E- variants of Freedom Fighter, which are coded designations for German and British variants of the craft.

F-15C Eagle: The Eagle was developed following rapid advancements in technology and tactics, made following the deployment of 1st Generation TSFs and initial successes in countering BETA advance. The Eagle emphasized the move away from "walking tanks" to more maneuverable design philosophy. The Eagle focused on high-powered maneuverability, forsaking heavy armor in favor of lighter composite alloys. The machines combination of speed, durability, ease of piloting and firepower has lent itself to labeling this TSF as the "strongest of 2nd Generation" – an apt name for successor of the Phantom. The unit has since then being widely adopted by both American and UN forces, and several distinct variants exist to fulfill more unique strategic criteria of different foreign nations. The C variant of Eagle is noted for using Pratts & Witney F-100-PW-100 jump jets, and overall has superior operation time compared to A variant. The American version is also equipped with improved detection systems and ECCM, in the event of having to fight human opponents. Unlike earlier Phantom model, the Eagle uses a unique knee block storage area that holds ammunition and close-combat knives. The back arms themselves are used solely for gun control.

F-15E Strike Eagle: Although visually identical to F-15C, the Strike Eagle is internally a whole new machine. Improvements to fire control, avionics, composite armor and engines give this craft nearly an incomparable performance against its older versions, bringing it fully within 2.5 Generation. It is widely perceived as the most powerful 2nd Generation derived machine, and is the standard TSF of American Army and Space Force. The UN Orbital detachment has also adopted this machine, and UN is mulling the option of replacing its aging F-15C fleet with Strike Eagles. F-15E is also notable for being able to purge its storage blocks, enhancing its overall performance (particularly in close-range dogfights) at the cost of its ammunition storages. Even despite being already active for last 20 years, the delay in introduction of 3rd Generation machines ensure continued market for this craft, and further upgrades are planned.

F-22A Raptor EMD Phase-2: A pre-production model of the Raptor craft, part of the so-called "Engineering and Manufacturing Development Phase 2". The Raptor is a top-notch, true 3rd Generation craft that employs Operation-By-Light avionics to give its pilots near immediate reaction time, while also possessing superior maneuverability and speed, along with significant stealth capacity to deter possible human opponents. This model posses a number of incremental updates from the original YF-22 prototype, including a better model of jump-jets (Pratts & Witney FE119-PW-100 from YFE119-PW-100), which also features and improved heat and noise dissipation to improve stealth capacity; the existing models have also been painted with unique, cobalt-based, radio-wave absorbing paint to the same affect. Unit's balance has also been improved, and the legs have been fine-tuned to create less noise and impact when travelling, making it harder to locate the Raptor via seismic detectors. In addition, the Raptor used the latest targeting computers and weapon-guidance OS, allowing for nearly flawless aim even during high-speed, high-G maneuvering. Six models are currently operational, four of which are part of the elite Infinity Squadron. It is likely that the finished product – further refined by Infinity's testing, will be no less impressive.

YF-22 Raptor: A prototype design that would later become renowned as the "Raptor", the YF-22 was one of the two prototype craft developed during the ATSF program. Designed by Lockweed with a substantial help from Boening, the craft represented the top achievements of the U.S TSF technology. Its unusual, angular profile was modeled to as much improve aerodynamics as to reflect radar waves, an integral component to its stealth capacity, that is further aided by the units extensive ECM systems and modified jump-jets exhausts to disperse the heat from them more effectively. The craft also used the latest Operation By Light avionics, which coupled with its advanced fire-control systems and amazing speed and maneuverability, allowed it outmatch any former generation machine. However, performance-wise, the unit proved the be somewhat inferior to its rival, the YF-23, coming in second in both anti-TSF combat and anti-BETA simulations. However, YF-22 proved to be both cheaper, as well as easier to integrate into existing U.S Army tactics, as it relied on same high long-ranged firepower concept as earlier machines compared to the YF-23s novel close-combat capacity. Nether the less, the selection of the Raptor has proven to be a highly controversial choice, and has been widely condemned by international community due to Raptor's apparent greater potential at combating human, rather than Alien, opponents.

YF-23 Black Widow II: Named after a famous twin-propeller aircraft fielded during the WWII, this craft represents Northrock's answer to the ATSF project. Profiled in a way to improve its aerodynamics as well as radar, the Black Widow II represented a unique approach to anti-TSF and anti-BETA tactics by the United States. Rather than rely on long-range firepower with a high degree of mobility, the Black Widow instead relies on overwhelming its opponents at close-to-middle range dogfights. Like Soviet or European crafts, the YF-23 features sharpened carbon vanes on its armor to improve melee capacity, and removed to original knee-block storage, placing the knife sheaths on unit's arms. In addition, the weapon arms have been modified to carry melee halberd-type weapon, the first American TSF in history to do so. Under normal circumstances, YF-23 possessed 4 combat arms, though two additional ones can be attached to units shoulder sections. Like the Raptor, it also uses shoulder-mounted exhausts to generate spontaneous "side" boosts, and employs latest Operation-By-Light avionics to grant its pilots the highest, nearly-human reaction time. Two models have been build, one called the PAV-1 "Spider" and PAV-2 "Gray Ghost", each equipped with different jump-jet model. Although the ATSF testing determined that both it and YF-22 had roughly equal stealth and combat capabilities, The Black Widows proved more capable in combat. In anti-BETA JIVES testing, their close-quarter focus gave them vital advantage, while stealth-based combat frequently turned to "knife fighting" ranges to counter the ECM distortions and inability to lock-on guns, which heavily favored the Black Widow. However, both YF-23 prototypes proved to be much more costly to maintain and produce than Lockweed's design, and had shorter operating time; furthermore, they represented a significant shift from acknowledged U.S doctrine and as result, the YF-23 was ultimately rejected. However, the informational leak that pointed out Black Widow II's superior anti-BETA capacity has made the decision highly controversial, particularly as certain units within U.S Military begun to doubt the effectiveness of current tactics and training.

European:

F-5G/I/E Tornado: Commonly known as Tornadoes, these machines are F-5 adopted and produced by various European manufacturers. The crafts posses a number of incremental upgrades over original F-5 design, including more powerful engines that help it in high-speed attack missions, and swing-wing mechanism that gives a modicurum of maneuverability at any speed. Each particular variant is chartering to the needs of particular army: E-variant is meant for the British, G-variant is employed by German Bundeswehr and I-variant is used by Italy. Although increasingly outdated, minor upgrades (particularly to avionics and detection mechanisms) keeps them combat-relevant. The British in particular make heavy use of Tornadoes, as evident in their various upgrade plans, such as the ADV variant.

F-5F/Mirage III: An F-5 variant licensed to the French Republic, in its attempt to jump-start their own TSF industries. The Mirage has been significantly upgraded from base F-5 design, including improved sensors, advanced communications matrix and most of all, improved close-combat handling. It also used unique at the time delta-wing configuration for its jump-jets.

F-5E Tornado ADV: An upgrade to existing Tornado, the Area Defense Variant is Britian's attempt to refurnish Tornado design for more straight-up combat duties and area defense against overwhelming BETA numbers. Improvements include further engine upgrades, addition of latest fire control mechanism, upgraded infrared sensors and addition of fixed melee weaponry on machines hand and leg parts. With increased operational time and combat capabilities, the Tornado ADV is fully capable of matching any 2nd Generation machine. The RAF is also investigating a possible carrier-based variant.

EF-2000: Known as the Eurofighter Typhoon, its development begun in 1978 following failure of Operation Palaiogolos that demonstrated number of shortcomings within then-current TSF generation. Subsequently the European Community members formed European Combat Tactical Surface Fighter program (ECTSF) to deal with the issue. In 1985, the goal of the program shifted to producing high-firepower, high-mobile TSF meant to Infiltrate Hives and deal with Laser-class BETA through high mobility, requirements not unlike those of American F-15. However, the project reached a snag when France withdrew from the project following disagreement over unit's jump-jets, and widespread deployment of F-15 put its existence into question. With rumors of potential exit by West Germany, the ECTSF shifted to creation of true 3rd generation machine in 1987; first combat-capable prototypes were deployed in 1994 as a means of displaying to ECTSF progress and keeping the EU from dissolving the project. The Typhoon is a high-maneuverability unit, that uses its considerable aeronautical instability to gain considerable maneuverability in close-combat. Advanced computer systems balance the craft while Operation-By-Light avionics give pilots unprecedented reaction time. The unit's armor is also equipped with super hard carbon blades through the body, which increase its melee and even function as a part of crafts control surfaces. It's combat arms can be also adapted to carry a wide array of weaponry, allowing the Typhoon to quickly adapt to any situation. Following field trials in 1995, the machine is slated to be widely deployed through EU and Atlantic U.N Army Group by 2000. Although predominantly meant to operate in Europe, some foreign nations have expressed interest in the machine; Japan in particular, whose combat doctrines remain very similar to European ones. However, different maintenance requirements compared to Japanese TSFs remain a barrier to adoption.

JAS-39 Grippen: A 3rd Generation TSF developed for the use by Kingdom of Sweden, The Gryphon is meant as direct replacement for JA-37 design – a multipurpose, maneuverable TSF. One of the basic requirements was that the craft could adopt to roles of Fighter , Attack or Reconnaissance (Jakt-Attack-Spanning) without having to return to base to rearm. As result, Grippen is equipped with latest-generation Operation-By-Light avionics and advanced sensors and fire-control systems that can be adopted to any weapon. Similary, JAS-39 can be equipped with practically everyone weapon in the European arsenals. With performance comparable to Typhoon or Rafale, while being cheaper to maintain, the Grippen became a staple craft of Swedish armed forces.

Rafale: The France's own 3rd Generation machine, Rafale was developed by Dass-ult company after France's withdrawal from ECTSF program over rejection of French-produced jump-jets, as well as overall disparity between the requirements of the French Army and other European forces. Despite being developed separately from Typhoon, the machine retains nearly the same profile, given that France employed same data in its creation as this ECTSF engineers. This also includes the weaponized super-hard carbon fixtures, such as the arm blades or shin armor. The unit also possesses same high-level performance, ensured by its advanced fire-control and early detection systems, as well as by France's own Operation-By-Light system. The Rafale is also a carrier-capable TSF, and its jump jets and several other parts can be folded for easier transportation. With relatively uneventful, bust fast R&D process, Dass-ult released Rafale in 1998. Since then, the unit has remained in use by several high-profile squadrons and the French Foreign Legion. Several African nations have also expressed their interest in purchasing the craft. It's name translates to as "Squall"

Japanese:

Type-94 Shiranui: Noted as the first "genuinely" native TSF design, the Shiranui arose as a lengthy R&D program by Japanese military industrial complex to create a next-generation TSF. By many, it is considered also as a first 3rd Generation craft, although this is based mostly on its impressive anti-BETA record than anything else. The Shiranui was built based off the Japanese export version of Eagle (the Type-98 Kagerou), and posses largely identical frame, although externally and internally many things were changed to adapt it to exact requirements but forth by Japanese military-intelligence community. The unit features improved communications and sensory suite (including lates-generation laser and seismic detectors). It also forsakes the brutal thrust of Eagle over more subtle measures – the Shiranui's designed boosters have smaller thrust and acceleration (which also makes them much more fuel-efficient), and compensate by making use of head mast arms as control surfaces. While this makes it deceptively difficult to pilot, a skilled user can use it to make Shiranui unbelievably maneuverable even in close-quarters. As it is meant to be a multi-purpose unit, the Type-94s OS can handle a variety of weapons ranging from PB knives and halberds to shields and missile containers. With unmatched mobility and avionics affording excellent reaction time, the Shiranuis were enthusiastically received and entered mass production in 1994. Unfortunately, with passage of time it became apparent that its exact "tailoring" to requirements set forth by Japanese military were also its greatest weakness – the Shiranui lacked any space for upgrades without a costly re-design, which effectively rendered it as a dead-end machine. With priorities for Imperial forces rapidly shifting, this eventuality had forced Japan to take rather drastic development measures.

Type-00 Takemikazuchi: The first "true" 3rd Generation machine created by Japanese industries, Type-00 was born out of the request of Imperial Royal Guards for a machine "equal, or superior to" the regular Army's Shiranui craft. After a lengthy development cycle through the 90s, in early 2000, first models were rolled off and pressed into service. The Takemikazuchi frame and exterior have been refined for maximum effectiveness and control; the unit posses considerably greater thrust then Shiranui, and can readily make use of it. The curved, seemingly decorative hull however is filled with first-contact weapon, including its weaponized feet, finger tips and hidden blades located on arm vanes (inspired by similar Soviet design practice), all which give the machine an edge in close-combat. The usage of latest Operation By Light avionics also ensures nearly immediate control and human-like precision over the machine, allowing a trained pilot to make the most out of Takemikazuchis omni-directional maneuverability. Additionally, advanced targeting OS allows for excellent aim and can be used for nearly every Japanese weapon, allowing Type-00s to be deployed to nearly any kind of mission. Truly, it is one-of-a-kind design that can be matched only by the latest in European, American and Soviet engineering. Despite its superior performance however, the mind-boggling cost of average unit, and complicated maintenance requirements have prevented Imperial Army from utilizing this craft; in addition with Japanese industrial capacity strained to the limit, it remains questionable if more than 30 of these crafts can be made in a year. Interestingly, the actual Takemikazuchi project is consistent of several differeing variants, meant to reflect their pilots standing within the Guards.

-Type-00R : "The" Takemikazuchi, this unit is the highest-performing within Japanese Armed Forces, and has been specifically designed "for Shogun's protection". Only several have been build, due to their staggering costs, and distributed between the Grand Shogun, and her relatives, many of which serve with distinction with Guard command. As such, the unit additionally poses a proprietary OS to maximize the usage of OBL, advanced battlefield awareness suite and highest-grade communication matrix, along with redundant power generator and reinforced joints and armor. As no camouflage has proven effective against BETA, Imperial Royal Guard machines are painted to quickly convey rank and be readily identifiable in battle; Shogun's personal machine is colored in deep purple with red details. The "Clan Leader" painting scheme consist of ultramarine blue with orange details. Unlike other combat machine, Type-00Rs posses a biometric lock on its controls, ensuring that they can be operated only by their high-ranking masters.

-Type-00F: A more common variant meant for field commanders, ranking retainers and distinguished aces, Type-00F is largely similar to R-version, although it does feature somewhat inferior communication and laser-detection systems, along with number of other internal components to reduce its price and maintenance. However, the unit still remains vastly superior to most regular Japanese TSFs. The standard color scheme in their case is bright red with blue details – color meant to convey a Samurai rank, signifying ranking officer or particularly distinguished pilot in service of a lord. Most of such pilots are usual unit commanders. Other F-variant owners include fudai – a specific class of hereditary retainers sworn to noble houses of Japan as their protectors. These men and woman are mostly trained from birth as adept soldiers, and are expected to lead within Japanese society, as such, the Guard considers it prudent to provide them with "adequate" tools of war. Fudai units are colored yellow with purple details.

-Type-00A: A further downgraded Takemikazuchi version. Reductions to generator, lack of strengthened armor, joints and simpler communication systems ensure lower price and further reduced maintenance requirements, although the unit still retains superior performance to best of Imperial Army. It's color scheme is universally white with blue highlights. The Type-00A is issued mostly to officer pilots, most of which serve as members of larger groups, or in extreme cases lead small-scale units.

-Type-00C: The "lowest" variant of Takemikazuchi, many of its non-essential systems have been replaced with equivalents from Shiranui model to minimalize production and maintenance costs. However, it still displays at least over 20% better performance then Shiranui itself. C-variant is meant to be piloted by regular Guard members. As such, it lacks the same advance communication and control software as other versions. Consequently, it lacks the same horned helmet as other three variants. It's color scheme is grey with orange highlights.

Author's note: Expect further updates as story proceeds.