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by Sternberg. . 16 reads.

Mind Behind ISDF Armoured Walker Corps Program Revealed

SUBTERRANEAN HIVE TEMPESTUS STANDARD

23/02/2048
1 Royal Drac

by journalist Gerald Taybor

The Imperial Sternberg Defence Forces' latest unit of high-tech armaments - the 'Armoured Walker Corps' - has been the subject of both political criticism during its rocky development cycles over the part of nearly a decade, as well as inspired both curiosity and awe during the project's deployment and since.

However, it has been revealed today that an outside helping hand had been the driving force behind what some in the ISDF now proclaim as 'the Miracle of Fortress Verak' ... and has been since its very inception.



The until-now 'unidentified officer' at Fortress Verak:
U.E.F. General Samantha Clarke.

General Samantha Clarke, a veteran flag officer of the distant 'United Earth Federation', had been recommended to head up an advisory body of international officers and scientists when the ISDF openly published its bidding proposal for the walker design competition in 2040 ATS. Having a reputation of not sitting projects or campaigns alike from behind a desk (as well as a no-nonsense approach), Clarke quickly became involved with the design and testing process at every step. According to colleagues, she was the first test pilot of the MWC-009A 'Artemis' upon its completion in late May, 2047.

In a further admission, Clarke was also found to have been the officer-in-command of the Armoured Walker Corps' first action during the Inquisition War of 2047. The now-famous assault on Fortress Verak saw the squadron of Sternbergite walkers break through two defensive walls and the fort's rebel garrison before they were forced to retire. Whether the pilots involved in the operation were sworn to secrecy, or if Clarke somehow avoided identification during the operation, however, is unclear.

Neither the ambassador of the UEF or its senior command have commented on General Clarke's reasoning for staying on the project for so long, nor whether the UEF gained any benefit from assisting a comparatively minor nation with such a project. However, General Clarke has informed reporters that, due to ongoing conflict on the UEF's borders, her tenure in Sternberg will be coming to a close by year's end. As for more specific details on her involvement with the AWC, "That's classified well above both of our pay-grades."..

"It is unfortunate that we are to lose such a brilliant mechanical and strategic mind." Canoness Virtrix reported to our press officer earlier this afternoon. "But the benefits we have been able to gain from General Clarke's insights and command of the AWC will outlast her brief involvement in our military history. Myself and the Empress-Regnant wish General Clarke all the best in both her military career and her future endeavors with the UEF."

Sternberg

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