Knightmare Frames
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The giant robots in Code Geass - Lelouch of the Rebellion, created by Sunrise, are called Knightmare Frames (ナイトメアフレーム Naitomea Furēmu?), or simply Knightmares.
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[edit] Introduction
Developed by the Holy Britannia Empire, the Knightmare Frames are manned, humanoid weapons that have partially replaced the practically obsolete main battle tanks. Verbally, the name sounds like nightmare but in spelling, it refers to a knight's mare. The current fleet of Britannian Knightmare Frames uses the Royal Panzer Infantry (RPI) model series designation.
First used in actual combat was during Britannia's invasion of Japan, the Knightmare Frames feature self-propelled roller skate systems christened 'Landspinners', allowing them to achieve high mobility and speeds, and gain superiority on modern battlefields. Equipped with a sophisticated 'Factsphere' open sensor camera on the head or torso to gather visual, these combat vehicles are powered by a new source called the Yggdrasil Drive. Later models now incorporate nuclei made of Coalminus-rich Sakuradite, a material now paramount in superconductivity technology.
The cockpit, which is set in the protruding 'hump back' and protected by the thick chest, can be ejected in case of emergency. Equipped with parachutes, they enable a pilot to evacuate a disabled or exploding Knightmare Frame, thereby increasing the average lifespan of a soldier on the battlefield and decreasing the number of casualties. The overseeing General(s) are notified on their battlefield overmap when a pilot has ejected. Additionally, a "signal lost" indicates a frame's premature destruction or incapacitation before a successful eject.
A Knightmare Frame's main standard weapons are handheld rifles, shoulder or wrist-mounted Slash Harkens (wired rocket anchors), Stun Tonfas, lances and airburst hand grenades.
[edit] History
The history of Knightmare Frames is roughly divided in four Ages, which mark the birth of a new kind of weapon platform and its evolution into a full-fledged combat system.[1]
[edit] First Age: Infancy
The First Age saw the creation of 'emergency survival cockpits' for conventional vehicles like Main Battle Tanks and Armored Personnel Carriers. Equipped with rocket engines to fly the crew away from the wreck, the contraptions were soon equipped with artificial legs to allow greater mobility. Limited room inside the said tanks and other vehicles however restricted the number of legs to two. Although unarmed and with limited power sources, the 'walking cockpits' nevertheless sparked much interest and laid out the bases for gressorial machines.
[edit] Second Age: Turning Point
Several years later, the Britannian Empire entered the Second Age by authorizing research and development (R&D) on an innovative weapon, implementing several systems that had just been created, just as:
- Multipurpose manipulators
- Landspinner propulsion systems
- Factsphere sensors
R&D, however, only enjoyed a short lifetime and the entire project remained at trial level, as the Landspinners suffered critical jams and brutal accelerations, causing the Knightmare Frames to tumble during test trials. The manipulators were unable to handle high-precision tasks and it wasn't until the Third and Fourth Age that acceptable results were finally achieved. R&D, however, went two separate ways, namely the application of military-based robotics projects and the use of social-oriented programs. The former was assigned to a Britannian Army Special Division, the 'Special Dispatch Guidance System Division', while the latter went in the hands of a private group, the Ashford Foundation. The said company proactively implemented technologies related to training and education, enabling the entire Knightmare Frame program to make progress fluidly.
The bipedal weapon was in the meantime nicknamed 'Knightmare' by the Army but it non-offensive equipment was referred to as 'Frame' by civilians. The union of those two terms eventually gave birth to the system's current name, 'Knightmare Frame'.
[edit] Third Age: Archetype
The Third Age quickly reaped the favorable results from the Second Age and focused on making Knightmare Frames truly combat effective platforms. As such, technology fields were prioritized, with greater focus given on mobility and ordnance.
As some time, the use of supraconductor elements became paramount in Knightmare Frame R&D. One material specifically gained interest: Sakuradite. The Sakuradite-rich Coalminus was observed to bring out high output yields, effectively boosting the Knightmare Frames' performances. Before long, the mineral's value had multiplied, and it had become the core of many political issues and positions, most notably Britannia's foreign and diplomatic policies.
It was also at that time that the famous Ganymede prototype, manufactured and designed by the Ashford Foundation, made its appearance. Its test pilot gained renown and was granted knighthood, before eventually getting married to the Britannian Emperor. However, the company suffered great damage when she was assassinated and started to decline. The Ashford Foundation eventually retired from its business and its employees were disbanded. The truth on the Empress' death was never truly elucidated but rumors suggest that her downfall was caused by a political feud meant to keep the rising Ashford Foundation in check.
[edit] Fourth Age: Implementation
The Fourth Age was heavily influenced by the venerable Ganymede prototype. The once experimental vehicles definitively became weapon platforms and, from earlier test results, the RPI-11 Glasgow was rolled out, first model to be truly considered combat capable. It proved its tactical and technological superiority during the invasion of Japan in 2010 A.T.B. by crushing the local army with relative ease. Its success confirmed, the Glasgow underwent many modifications and upgrades, becoming the baseline unit for the Britannian Army. Even after it became obsolete, its frame was still used as template for later generation models such as the Sutherland, the aquatic Boatman or the Gloucester. Some units are, even to this day, still used by the Knightpolice for law enforcement. Other countries and factions such as the Japanese Liberation Front even created its own variants, namely the Burai, Burai Kai and Raikou, before creating its own designs, although with highly different designs.
Knightmare Frame R&D has now reached its seventh generation, although there are few prototypes of this kind to this day. Nevertheless, upgrades and discoveries are still made every day, as now particle and wave technology are being intensively implemented in experimental weaponry.
[edit] Fifth Age: Evolution
Following the fourth generation was the fifth generation Sutherland, which kept the Glasgow's development path with a focus on improving mobility and close combat performance. The Glasgow was developed with conventional weapons such as tanks in mind, but apparently gave no consideration to fighting other Knightmare Frames. Though the Glasgow's basic technology was far from inferior, most of its success came thanks to Britannia's overwhelming power. As the success of the Glasgow lead to a worldwide boom in robotic weapon development, it became obvious that a more up-to-date approach was required.
The Sutherland's improvements to cockpit comfort and function, as well as its close combat abilities, show that the concept of robot combat was highly considered during its development. In addition to improved mobility, the refined landspinners provided the ability to pivot-turn (rotating the landspinners in opposite directions, allowing for rapid turning in place). The feedback from this technology was later returned to the Glasgow. The Second Princess Cornelia and her bodyguards make use of the Glouchester, custom machines made from the Sutherland. The remodel shows that it was not intended for anti-robot combat, but rather anti-Knightmare combat, reflecting the Chinese Federation and the EU's development of their own Knightmare Frames.
[edit] Sixth Age: Missing and Continuation
Because the Fifth Generation Sutherland and Gloucester featured similar refinements to the Knightmare Frame's technology, there was little overall innovation. As a result, the once-rapid pace of KMF development quickly slowed to a near-halt. Seeking a breakthrough, various technical trial-type machines were developed, but none produced any form of concrete results. For some time, it seemed like research into bipedal walking weapons was nothing more than wildly grasping for results. Thus, the Sixth Generation is often referred to as the "Missing Generation".
The machine that broke this stagnant period was the Seventh Generation Lancelot. Its development was handled by a key member of the Knightmare development group's applied engineering department. The OS, frame materials, and research from the First through Fifth (Sixth) Generations were all brought into line for its conception. Firstly, the frame features a differing amount of Sakuradite. Though typically used for the Yggdrasil Drive which powers KMFs, the Sakuradite is used for more than just the Coalminas core. This provides the unit with overwhelming power. Thanks to its high output, technologies such as the MVS (Maser Vibration Sword) and electromagnetic shielding could be employed. In addition to the Sakuradite dispersed throughout the frame, it is also used in the VARIS (Variable Ammunition Repulsion Impact Spitfire), with the intent of giving it the strength to survive a direct hit. This kind of rapid development completely defies the notion of general purpose and mass production units, resulting in the Lancelot being a unique machine.
At this point, there are two possible futures for KMF development. One is to take the technology introduced in the Seventh Generation and find a cheap way of introducing it into mass production machines. The other is to develop other technologies from the missing Sixth Generation to produce Seventh Generation machines other than the Lancelot. The thinking behind the technology in the Guren Nishiki and related machines could be considered "Another Seventh Generation".
[edit] Britannian models
[edit] Lancelot
- Series： Z-01
- Height: 4.49m
- Weight: 6890kg
- Weapons
The Lancelot (ランスロット Ransurotto?) is an experimental, one of a kind, Knightmare Frame developed by Lloyd Asplund and the Military Engineering Corps. Being the first seventh generation Knightmare Frame ever fielded, the Lancelot far exceeds the capacity of other models thanks to the heavy amount of Sakuradite scattered throughout its frame as well as well as in its Yggdrasil Drive, the 'Coalminas' core. As a high-performance unit, the Lancelot features a large number of experimental and innovative devices not yet found on its predecessors. Unlike the older Knightmare Frames, the Lancelot features two retractable Factspheres affixed on its chest, two forearm-mounted beam shields, as well as two Slash Harkens on its wrists and an additional two on its hips. Its backborne Maser Vibration Swords (MVS) can cut through any target thanks to their high oscillation ratio, while its VARIS specialized particle rifles can adapt to any type of situation due to its adjustable projectile repulsion output. However, as it is still in development, unlike other Knightmare frames the Lancelot lacks an ejection seat. The Lancelot can also equip a backpack-like Float System, based on the same system in the Avalon and Gawain, that allows it to fly.
[edit] Glasgow
- Series： RPI-11
- Height： 4.24m
- Weight: 7350kg
- Weapons
The Glasgow (グラスゴー Gurasugō?) is a fourth-generation Knightmare Frame that has actively contributed to the invasion of Japan by proving overwhelming superiority over conventional, land combat vehicles. Its hull also served as a template for Knightmare Frame research and development for later models. Now considered as outdated, the Glasgow is being quickly replaced by the newer RPI-13 Sutherland, although the civilian Knightpolice and the Japanese resistance still use modified or updated models named Burais. The Glasgow's armament array include Slash Harkens (wired hooks), tonfas and a handheld assault rifle. Kallen Stadtfeld uses a customized red Glasgow in the beginning of the series; but due to extensive use during the Shinjuku incident, it was ultimately damaged beyond repair.
[edit] Sutherland
- Series： RPI-13
- Height: 4.39m
- Weight: 7480kg
- Weapons
The Sutherland (サザーランド Sazārando?) is currently the standard Knightmare Frame model for the Britannian Army, the Sutherland is a fifth-generation unit heavily based on the older RPI-11 Glasgow. It boasts improved mobility through a better application of the Landspinner systems as well as enhanced cockpit life support. It carries Stun Tonfas, Slash Harkens and handheld assault rifles.
[edit] Gloucester
- Series： RPI-209
- Height: 4.29m
- Weight： 7750kg
- Weapons
The Fifth-generation Gloucester (グロースター Gurōsutā?) Knightmare Frame and actually a remodeled Sutherland focused on close combat. Featuring enhanced hand-to-hand capabilities, the Gloucester is exclusively used by Princess Cornelia's royal guards and is first seen piloted by Guilford and Darlton during the conquest of Area 18. The Gloucester, as a close combat unit, uses a large jousting lance, and to further represent a medieval knight's appearance, is occasionally draped in a cape. Although normal Gloucester models are painted blue, Cornelia's aides sport a red or purple color scheme instead.
[edit] Cornelia's Model
- Series: RPI-00/SC
- Height: 4.84m
- Weight: 7850kg
- Weapons
As Princess Cornelia's personal Knightmare, the Gloucester Cornelia Unit (グロースター・コーネリア機 Gurōsutā Kōneriaki?) is a custom model featuring slight differences from the original model, namely two horn-like antenna arrays protruding from both sides of the headpiece.
[edit] Gawain
- Series: IFX-V301
- Height: 6.57m
- Weight: 14570kg
- Weapons:
- Hadron cannon × 2
- Slash Harken × 10 (スラッシュハーケン Surasshuhāken?)
Named after another Knight of the Round Table, the Gawain is a brand new Knightmare Frame that made its appearance and first battle in episode 18. Privately developed by Prince Schneizel El Britannia, very little is known about this frame other than the fact that it is much larger than most Knightmares (150% the height and weight of the Sutherland), features a double-seater cockpit, is capable of flight, and mounts powerful Hadron cannons in its shoulders. Despite its dual cockpit, the Gawain can still be operated by a single pilot. Though it features some new technologies, it remains unknown if the Gawain possesses certain standard Knightmare features such as Factspheres and ejection seats. Other than the Hadron cannons, the Gawain's only weapons are its fingertips, which are actually concealed slash harkens. The Gawain's lack of weapons belie its true function, as its advanced electronics and the experimental Druid System analysis complex mark it as a powerful commander unit. In episode 19, Zero and Kallen steal the Gawain in order to escape from the Kaminejima Island ruins, but discover that the Knightmare is incomplete in key areas such as the Hadron cannons. Despite the amount of new technology consequently lost, Schneizel dismisses the Gawain's theft, considering it to be a mere "experimental subject". However, the unit is perfected by the Black Knights' scientific mastermind, Laksharta, who uses the theory of Gefjun Disturber technology to gain control of the Hadron cannons' erratic firepower. As a side benefit, the Disturber's natural properties also give the Gawain a certain degree of stealth. A few days later, it successfully experiences its maiden battle in Kyûshû, with C.C. handling the actual piloting while Zero operates the weapons and issues orders.
[edit] Japanese models
[edit] Burai
- Series: Type-10R
- Height: 4.56m
- Weight: 7530kg
- Weapons
The Burai (無頼 lit.Rascal?) is remodeled version of the Glasgow manufactured by a group located in Kyoto and used by the Black Knights and the Japan Liberation Front. It is basically the same as a Glasgow, except for the head, which resembles the face of an oni (鬼 ?) with the addition of fang-like cheekbones and the presence of a torso-mounted machine gun for antipersonnel warfare. Its hands have also been refurbished so that they can guard, a feature totally exclusive to the Burai model and not to the original Glasgows. Lelouch piloted a customized head unit reserved, easily recognizable by its golden horns almost resembling a samurai.
[edit] Burai Kai
- Series: Type-1R
- Height: 4.37m
- Weight: 7480kg
- Weapons
The Burai Kai (無頼改?) is an optimized version of the Type-10R Burai, solely used by the General Toudou's Japanese Liberation Front as well as his group of subordinates, the Four Holy Swords. Its distinctive feature is the increase in length of its head antennas, which now extend to the back of the torso. The Burai Kai's performance in battle has proven to be equal to Britannia's Gloucester Knightmare frames. all 5 known units were lost after the battle of Narita, presumably abandoned by Todou and the Four Holy Swords during their retreat.
[edit] Gekka
- Series: Type-3F
- Height: 4.45m
- Weight: 7920kg
- Weapons
The Gekka (月下 lit.Under the moon?) is a new model revealed in Episode 17 and heavily based on the Guren Nishiki, but seemingly developed for mass production. Using the same motorcycle seat design, this Japanese-made Frame secretly sponsored by Kyoto 6 replaces the earlier Burai Kai and boast sixth to seventh generation technology, making them superior to Britannia's current mass production model, the Sutherland. Using the same morphology as the Guren Nishiki, the Gekkas nevertheless no longer retain the protective helm and the Radiation Wave emitter-equipped, clawed hand. The head unit has been replaced with a monoptic model and the cannon embedded in the left arm has been replaced by an optional, fully automatic rifle capable of bringing down Knightmare Frames as well as faster objects like missiles and airborne ordnance carriers. Its primary weapon is a Heat Katana, an elongated, heated chainsaw meant to shear through Knightmares with greater ease than with conventional blades. The only five existing units seen to this day are assigned to the Four Heavenly Swords and their leader, Toudou, who has been given a customized model with two, hair-like appendages flowing from the back of the head. That particular variant sports a black paint scheme and a unique Heat Katana, mounting a Slash Harken on the butt of the handle as well as several thrusters on the back of the blade. The Gekkas are also equipped with a chaff dispenser, used to veil the battlefield under a layer of chaff particles and permit them to retreat in safety.
[edit] Guren Nishiki
- Series: Type-02
- Height: 4.51m
- Weight: 7510kg
- Weapons
A Knightmare Frame model designed by Indian engineer Laksharta, manufactured by Japan and built by a group located in Kyoto, the Guren Nishiki (紅蓮弐式? lit. Crimson lotus type-02) features a different take on Knightmare Frame development, resulting in obvious differences in design and appearance with its Britannian counterparts. Despite the few similarities, the Guren Nishiki is on par with a seventh generation Knightmare Frame, a fact that is a source of pride for its manufacturers. Although equipped with devastating weaponry, the Guren Nishiki is however considered a defensive unit lacking ranged weapons. Shortly after its delivery to Tokyo, the only existing unit is given to the Order of the Black Knights. Zero entrusted this one-of-a-kind unit to Kallen as a replacement for the Burai unit she lost during episode 09. The Guren Nishiki features a helm-like outgrowth surrounding the retractable head as well as a silver, large, clawed right hand that houses a radiation wave emitter in its palm. When in close combat, the Guren Nishiki is able to grab nearby enemies by extending its collapsible arm and disable them by unleashing short bursts of high-energy oscillations known as Fukushahadō (輻射波動? lit. radiation surge). This devastating weapon can overload an enemy Knightmare Frame with microwave-like energy and destroy it by literally frying its components. In a battle against the Lancelot, this weapon was even shown to be capable of blocking a VARIS rifle bullet, completely stopping the shell in its tracks. Contrarily to other Knightmare cockpits, the Guren Nishiki features an unconventional pilot seat, shaped in the form of a motorbike seat. Its other weapons include a short knife as well as a rapid-fire gun mounted on its left forearm.
