Clippers

Python Clipper
Size (metres, W×H×L)	80 × 40 × 130
Cargo capacity	75 TC
Cargo bay extension	N/A
Maximum speed	0.325 LM
Manoeuvrability	Roll: 2.2 Pitch: 1.0
Energy banks	6
Energy recharge rate	Good (4.0)
Gun mounts	Fore, Aft Port, Starboard
Missile slots	4
Shield boosters available	Yes
Military shields available	Yes
Hyperspace capable	Yes
OXP or standard	OXP
Available to player	Yes
Base price	375000 Cr

Boa Clipper
Size (metres, W×H×L)	65 × 60 × 115
Cargo capacity	150 TC
Cargo bay extension	N/A
Maximum speed	0.362 LM
Manoeuvrability	Roll: 2.5 Pitch: 1.0
Energy banks	8
Energy recharge rate	Medium (3.2)
Gun mounts	Fore, Aft Port, Starboard
Missile slots	5
Shield boosters available	Yes
Military shields available	Yes
Hyperspace capable	Yes
OXP or standard	OXP
Available to player	Yes
Base price	525000 Cr

Clippers OXP

Overview

Following the success of their Clipper upgrade to the Boa 2, the Gerege Federation SpaceWorks felt that a similar upgrade to a smaller freighter would also be worthwhile. Following negotiations with Whatt and Pritney, they obtained a licence to adapt Python hulls to 'Clipper' specification. The Clipper concept is for fast transporters capable of delivering cargo quickly over vast distances, and it is also considered important that these ships can hold their own against bandit and pirate attacks. To these ends, both Python and Boa Clippers have sacrificed some cargo space to allow fitment of extra drive units allowing higher top speeds. GFS favour the DeClapton and Layla Quark-scintillation StarDrive as these units are powerful yet compact and are extremely reliable. In keeping with their role as long distance express transports, both Clipper models are equiped as standard with Fuel Scoops and Heat Shielding to allow 'sunskimming', and with the introduction of the Python variant external secondary fuel tanks were introduced across the range. These hold 4LY of fuel and this can be moved into the main tanks when their level falls below 3LY. Owners of Series One Boa Clippers are offered a cost-price retro-fit of these tanks.

Python Clipper

The Python Clipper has two Drive units with a reduction in cargo capacity of 25TC over the original Python, leaving a hold of 75TC capacity. The original Python was also noted for its lack of modern equipment options and poor armaments and these issues have been addressed in the Clipper. The Python Clipper has one less energy bank than the original Python (six rather than seven) and no cargo expansion option, but the space freed-up has allowed much more powerful rechargers to be fitted and also allows for four missile pylons, double that of the Python. Military Shield Boosters can also be fitted to the Clipper. Performance, handling and top speed are all noticeably better than a standard Python.

Boa Clipper

The Boa Clipper has three Stardrives and a cargo capacity of 150TC. Top speed and handling is improved over the Boa 2 but all other specifications are the same. With a full range of equipment options available and eight energy banks with efficient rechargers already included, there was little room for improvement over the standard Boa 2. Since its introduction, the Boa Clipper has sold over 850 units, making it GFS' most successful model ever.

Author

OXP by Smivs

Credits

Many thanks to Griff for allowing me to 'borrow' the engine model from his 'Boa', and to Okti for advice and help scripting the external fuel tanks.

License

This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 3.0Unported License. To view a copy of this license, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0/ or send a letter to Creative Commons, 171 Second Street, Suite 300, San Francisco, California, 94105, USA.

Version History

Version 1.0 Released 22nd December, 2011.

Download

Clippers OXP direct download from Smivsonline.

Installation

Unzip the download and place the .oxp folder in your Oolite AddOns folder.