Designation: VM-36
Zoid(s) For: Gator
Weapons Added: Refitted 40mm Beam Gatling Cannon
Equipment Added: Energy Absorption Panel x8, Energy Storage Tank x2
Cost: 25,000

A modification designed by the helpful people at AIZDAT, the Redfin Energy Absorption Panels (REAP) was created to grant the poor Gator a unique and stylish modification that would grant it some extra protection. REAP is a set of panels that absorb and convert laser and beam energy, storing it for later use by the Gator. The panels cover both sides of the spinal fin, the flanks between the front and back legs, and there is a circular panel installed on the side of each leg’s shoulder armour. If the panels are struck by an energy-based weapon, they will absorb the energy and two energy storage tanks mounted at the base of the tail will purify and convert the energy for later usage.

This sounds great, but the REAP have their limits. Any beam or laser with caliber/power greater than a 144mm, AZ or not, will actually damage the hit panel, and they are fairly fragile pieces of equipment. Also, the tank capacity is not unlimited, fixed at about 2000mm worth of energy absorption, or a thousand each. Once the tanks are full, any beams striking the panels will cause them to overpressurize and risk exploding in an energy-intensive explosion. Of course, the Gator is able to use the energy it has stored up, raising the caliber of the Beam Gatling Cannon up to 50mm while in use. However, should the tanks become at least 50% full, the Gator is able to perform a technique known as the Solar Maxi.

This technique forces all seven cannons of the gatling unit to fire at once, their power rising exponentially. The result is a convergent beam of caliber around 400mm, allowing for massive pain to be inflicted by the Gator. The beam will fire for around three seconds, and drains 50% power when used. The Gator is able to take in 15% energy capacity per turn without any energy beams hitting it, if it is in a bright and well lit location. Of course, stressing the beam gatling gun in such a fashion damages it, and after using this technique twice in a single battle the barrels will fuse, leaving the Gator without any ranged weaponry.