BT331 Federation Tank

thingiverse

The BT331 armoured vehicle, technically an armoured car but often referred to as a tank due to its rugged construction, is represented in this detailed replica. Backed by two powerful Smith and Westor nuclear generators feeding two shield generators linked together for maximum protection, this vehicle excels at speed and security. A built-in airlock on the left side of the vehicle allows it to operate effectively in even the most hostile environments. The BT331's armament consists of a 102mm Nuke cannon paired with a laser beam gun system, which proved troublesome in combat and led to its replacement by two 122mm nuke slug cannons on later models. Without the cumbersome laser cannon, all power could be redirected towards movement and defense, greatly increasing its effectiveness. However, the Type C turret reintroduced the laser cannon, proving useful against well-shielded targets. The BT331 can fire a variety of rounds, including nuclear warheads (typically carried in sets of four), Berkelian Darts (usually thirty are on board), and High Explosive rounds (also commonly thirty). Utilized extensively by the Federation during the War of Almai Independence, these vehicles played a significant role in the pivotal counter-attack within the Beta Hydra system. Some were even captured by Alien forces and reportedly converted for use against their former owners. Due to the expense of upgrading existing vehicles with new turrets, a turret extension was designed as a temporary solution, allowing for increased ammunition capacity and longer-range communication capabilities. The Type D model boasts three 142mm multi-firing cannons capable of firing nuke warheads, High Explosive rounds, proximity Anti-Aircraft rounds, and Berkelium Anti-Tank darts. These improved cannons possess nearly double the range of their predecessors, and all power is directed towards the linked shields and movement. The BT331's nickname, "Beech," originates from the tree-like growths found on Nike III, where the tank was first tested.