While Hunter tanks are used for most of the Triumvirate’s anti-aircraft needs on the frontier, their small size and lower power generation leaves them vulnerable to being overwhelmed. For the defense of static installations, larger Spartan emplacements are used.
The Spartan uses an ion beam weapon, the same type as the point defense weapons used aboard Triumvirate warships. With a dedicated quantum generator, it can dump nearly all of its power output into its gun, allowing it to keep firing almost indefinitely. A battery of these platforms can hold back massive air assaults, and stop missile volleys dead in their tracks.
Given that it is immobile, the Spartan cannot avoid fire the way mobile anti-air vehicles can. To make up for this, it is heavily armored, and packs a powerful energy shield generator, able to absorb return fire from attack aircraft long enough to shoot down its attacker.
Spartan platforms are found on every Triumvirate world, and are used to guard outposts along the galaxy’s trade routes. They are a powerful deterrent to roving pirates and marauders.