Orion

Orion
Primary User	Mercenaries
Max Velocity	350 kps
Max Afterburner Velocity	800 kps
Acceleration	350 kps2
Max Y/P/R	105/115/107
Guns	Plasma Guns (2)
Missiles	HS Missiles (3)
Turrets	Turreted Lasers (2)
Armor	Sides 14 cm. equiv. each Fore 18 cm. equiv. Aft.  16 cm. equiv.
Shields	Level 5

Orion Target Designation, 2669.

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  Orion cockpit, front view

Playguide

Orion
Type	Mercenary Gunship
Max Velocity	350 kps
Max Afterburner Velocity	800 kps
Acceleration	Average
Max Y/P/R	Poor
Guns	Mass Drivers (2) Turreted Lasers (2)
Missiles	HS Missiles (3)
Turrets	One, rear-facing
Armor	Sides 35 cm. equiv. each Fore 48 cm. equiv. Aft.  50 cm. equiv.
Jump Drive	Non-standard
Crew	1
Cost	75,000 credits
Cargo	50 units (75 with cargo expansion)

Orion

The Orion is perhaps the safest of all the vehicles mentioned here. It can carry the most armor and shields of all ships listed (at the expense of its maneuverability). This is a sturdy ship, designed to last.

Cockpit. Low visibility. The cockpit is dark and somewhat cramped, with less window area than the Tarsus. Dual MFDs are standard and easy to use (see illustration).
Instruments are not as easy to use as in the Centurion, but are simple to get a hgndle on.

Speed/Maneuverability. Supports up to a Level 5 engine upgrade. Although the Orion has better than average speed, it's difficult to pull through tight turns.

Ordnance/Protection. Supports addition of a rear turret. Even without the turret there is room for two gunbs and one weapon or tractor beam. With Level 5 engine upgrades, there is no reason not to pick a high quality gun with a high energy drain. Supports up to shield upgrade Level 5.

Overall Performance Rating. Due to its low maneuverability, limited cargo hold, and the expense of outfitting it, I give the Orion a low B. With enough money, though, you can make this ship a high A. I highly recommend the full option package for this ship.

Behind the Screens

The Orion is referred to in the game data files as "TUG".